The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that its election materials at the Oredo Local Government office in Edo State remain secure, despite reports of an attempted hijack by hoodlums.
The incident occurred shortly after the materials were delivered from the Central Bank branch in Benin City on Thursday, prompting concerns about the safety of the electoral supplies ahead of the upcoming elections.
According to Premium Times, the distribution of materials commenced around noon, with deliveries made to all 18 local governments in the state.
Following the arrival of the materials, thugs reportedly attacked the office, raising alarms about potential disruptions to the electoral process.
When this newspaper visited the Oredo office on Friday, accompanied by the YIAGA Africa team, security personnel were seen blocking one lane of the highway in front of the building.
Police officers had set up roadblocks, allowing only vehicles carrying electoral officials to pass, which resulted in severe traffic congestion along Ekewuan Road.
The assistant electoral officer for the local government, N.S. Osakue, confirmed the integrity of the election materials.
“People came, they were on their own, and we are on our own. Our materials are intact,” Mrs. Osakue stated, opting not to comment further on the attack.
She emphasized the importance of established communication protocols, noting that inquiries should be directed to the Public Affairs Department, which is designated to address media concerns.