The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Sankara, the headquarters of Ukum Local Government Area in Benue State, has been destroyed by youths from the community.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, during protests against escalating bandit attacks in the region, which targeted several government facilities.
According to Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, the attack happened at around 2 p.m.
Olumekun confirmed that no lives were lost in the incident.
He assured the public that security agencies had been promptly informed and had already deployed personnel to manage the situation.
“The incident occurred at 2 p.m. today, Wednesday, July 3, 2024, when youths in the area, said to be protesting against the activities of bandits, attacked facilities of government agencies, including INEC,” Olumekun stated.
Although there were no casualties, the damage to the INEC office was extensive. The building was significantly damaged, and office furniture, along with other movable and immovable materials, was destroyed.
Among the items lost were 10 electric generators, 300 ballot boxes, and 270 voting cubicles.
Professor Sam Egwu, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Benue State, reported the extensive damage to the Sankara office.
The incident has drawn the attention of security agencies, who are now actively working in the area to ensure stability and prevent further escalation of violence.
This attack on the INEC office is part of a broader wave of unrest in the region, driven by frustration over the increasing frequency and severity of bandit attacks.
The community’s anger has boiled over into direct action against government facilities, highlighting the urgent need for improved security and a more robust response to the threat posed by bandits in the area.
As the situation develops, the security agencies are working to restore order and address the concerns of the community.
The destruction of the INEC office represents a significant setback for the electoral process in the region, but efforts are underway to rebuild and continue preparations for future elections.
