The independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in the Enugu south local government area has been attacked by unknown gunmen in what is one of a series of attacks in an attempt to disrupt the preparation for the incoming 2023 general elections.
This was according to a statement released by INEC which was signed by the National Commissioner and Chairman of, the Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye on Monday.
According to INEC, the incident occurred around 9:12 on Sunday, January 15, 2023. where the security gate was wrecked but police were sent to the scene as soon as information got to them to deny the invaders access to the building. INEC also reassured Nigerians that the preparations for the 2023 general elections across the country will go as scheduled.
The statement reads “The Resident Electoral Commissioner for Enugu State, Dr. Chukwuemeka Chukwu, has reported that our office in Enugu South Local Government Area was attacked by unknown gunmen. The incident occurred around 9.12 pm yesterday, Sunday, January 15, 2023.
“The security gatehouse was razed. Fortunately, the attackers could not gain access to the main building as a result of the rapid response from the Police and Army officers from 82 Division. The State Commissioner of Police and the REC were personally at the scene immediately they received information about the attack.
“Of the two policemen deployed to protect the facility, one of them lost his life while the other sustained injuries and is receiving treatment. The commission prays for the repose of the soul of the deceased policeman and the speedy recovery of the injured.
“The attack is being investigated by the security agencies. Furthermore, a meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security in Enugu State co-chaired by the REC and the Commissioner of Police has been convened to discuss the latest incident and design additional strategies of fortifying the offices and protecting the personnel and materials.
“Meanwhile, the destroyed gatehouse will be rebuilt, and the Commission is proceeding with its preparations for the 2023 general election in Enugu State and the entire country as scheduled.”
