Ebonyi bye-election: INEC begins distribution of sensitive materials

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has commenced the distribution of sensitive materials for the conduct of a bye-election in Ebonyi South senatorial zone, Ebonyi State.

INEC disclosed this on Thursday at the commission headquarters, Abakaliki.

INEC will conduct a bye-election in Ebonyi South senatorial zone on Saturday this week to fill the vacant seat in Ebonyi South senatorial zone following the resignation of Senator David Umahi who is now Minister of Works.

The sensitive materials were distributed to the five local governments of Afikpo, Edda, Ohaozara, Onicha and Ivo which make up the senatorial zone.

Security agents, agents of political parties participating in the election and other relevant stakeholders in the electoral system, witnessed the distribution of the materials which took place at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) headquarters, Abakaliki the state capital.

Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission in the state, Mrs. Onyeka Ugochi who was present during the distribution of the sensitive materials told journalists that the commission had on Wednesday distributed other materials including BIVAS that have been configured and are at various local government preparatory to the election.

She noted that the commission was fully prepared for the bye-election and urged the electorate to come en mass and vote for the candidate of their choice without fear or intimidation, adding that security agents have been deployed to the places where the election is taking place to ensure the safety of voters.

“Since last week, our offices in the local governments have been flooded with security. So, we don’t have any obstacle or challenge

“We have finished posting our ad hoc staff. We are doing the last training of RA supervisors,” she stated.

Agent of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Nwogha Joseph Onyema urged the commission to ensure a free, fair and credible bye-election.

“From what we are seeing, we are convinced that there is sincerity for now. I am convinced that what is going on now is still right. We are pleading with INEC to ensure a credible, fair and transparent election.

“Who wins this election should be declared the winner. There should be no influence of government on the election,” he stated.