Anambra election: Bomb scare at Awka INEC office

THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Awka Anambra state, was on Monday beefed up with tight security following a suspected bomb scare in the area.

Tribune Online gathered that two substances suspected to be bomb explosives were sighted in the commission’s premises, which triggered fears among the staff and visitors alike.

It was also learnt that the alleged explosives were planted near the gate of the commission in the early hours of the day before bomb disposal experts came to the rescue.

When our correspondent visited the INEC office, there was a heavy presence of military personnel deployed to the premises with two trucks positioned at the two entrances to the road leading to the office to forestall any danger.

When contacted, the state Resident Electoral Commissioner REC, Dr Nkwachukwu Orji, said there was no case of bomb explosives at the commission’s office.

He said a substance was found outside the premises, adding that it was the duty of the police to confirm whether it was bomb explosives device or not.

“You know people can drop anything within the office especially this period just to score some point. The police should be in the position to ascertain whether or not it was such device,” he said.

On her part, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Princess Nkeiruka Nwode, said she was not aware of the development.

She said the presence of bomb disposal unit experts at the INEC office was part of preparations for the Saturday governorship election in the State.