The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recorded another attack on its office in the Njaba local government area in Imo.
The commission said this in a statement by its national commissioner and chairman of the electoral information and education committee, Festus Okoye, on Sunday in Abuja.
Okoye said the total number of INEC offices attacked nationwide since 2019 has now risen to 42.
“Our Resident Election Commissioner (REC) for Imo State, Professor Francis Ezeonu, reported that our office in the Njaba local government area in Imo was burnt down on May 30.
“Although no lives were lost, the building was burnt down considerably, along with election materials, office equipment and furniture.”
Okoye said the latest incident was reported to police for investigation.
“This attack comes exactly one week after the vandalism of our office in the Ahiazu Mbaise local government area on May 23.
“It is also the 8th INEC office to be attacked in Imo since the 2019 general elections.”
Okoye said the buildings, infrastructure and equipment of the INEC were essential national assets that ensured the continuity of electoral activities throughout the federation.
“Attacking these offices is not in the national interest and has the capacity to undermine electoral activities and the credibility of the democratic process,” Okoye added.
