The Independent National Electoral Commission has clearly stated that its staff were beaten up during the 15 bye-elections spread across 11 states of the country on Saturday, involving nine State House of Assembly seats and six Senatorial seats.NEC National Commissioner and chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, said this in a statement after its meeting in Abuja on Sunday, titled, ‘Conduct of bye-elections in 11 States.’
He said, “In some areas, staff members of the commission were assaulted and materials destroyed, while in others there was resistance to the use of the Smart Card Readers.
“In yet other areas, Commission staff members were prevented from deploying altogether. In fact, in one area in Lagos State, some people demanded for money from INEC staff before they would be allowed to deploy.
“These acts continue to reflect poorly on our country and denude the spirited efforts of the commission to improve the electoral process under very difficult circumstances.”
