Gunmen Attack INEC Commissioner’s Residence In Kogi Following Election Protest

Gunmen attacked the home of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Kogi State.

According to the statement shared by the Commission on its verified X handle (previously Twitter), the attack occurred in Lokoja, the capital city of Kogi State, during the early hours of Friday.

KanyiDaily reports that the attack transpired just a day after protesters besieged the INEC state headquarters in Lokoja, expressing their discontent over the outcome of the November 11 governorship election in the State.

INEC stated that the armed men confronted security personnel in a prolonged gun battle lasting over 30 minutes. They emphasized that, fortunately, no lives were lost, but property suffered damage during the ensuing exchange of gunfire.

In response, the Commission has urged an inquiry into the incident and increased security measures for the safeguarding of its staff and assets in the State.

“In the early hours of today, Friday 1st December 2023, around 3.30 am, gunmen attacked the residence of our Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Lokoja, Kogi State.

“The armed men engaged the security personnel in a gun battle for over 30 minutes until reinforcement arrived

“While no lives were lost, property was destroyed in the ensuing gun battle. A team of combined security personnel have been deployed to protect the residence. This incident occurred a day after a mob besieged our state office.

“We call for a thorough investigation and enhanced security protection for our personnel and assets in Kogi State,” INEC stated.

Kanyidaily recalls that the Kogi state chapter of the All Progressive Congress (APC) had stated that the Social Democratic Party (SDP) lacks evidence to substantiate its allegations of rigging against Ahmed Usman Ododo.