Armed men have attacked the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Imo State.
The armed men razed the INEC building and kidnapped some construction workers who were later rescued.
The Imo state Police command has confirmed the attack, blaming it on members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate Eastern Security Network (ESN).
“They came in their numbers to the Independent National Electoral Commission office Orlu in Orlu local government area of Imo State, threw Improvised Explosive Devices( IEDs) into the office from outside the fence and shooting sporadically fighting their way into the office but were repelled by the ever gallant Imo Police Command’s Tactical Teams,” the police said in a statement.
INEC National Commissioner Festus Okoye said the attack was reported by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Imo State, Professor Sylvia Uchenna Agu.
“The building, which is undergoing extensive renovation following an earlier attack, was vandalised and partially set ablaze.
“Three out of seven construction workers were abducted but later released.”
Okoye said the damage would have been more extensive but for the prompt response of the police personnel who were quick in mobilising their men to the scene.
“This is one attack too many. The Commission once again expresses its concern over the spate of attacks on its facilities and the negative consequences on our preparations for the 2023 General Election,” he added.
Meanwhile, Michael Abattam, police public relations officer at the Imo State Police Command said Investigation is ongoing and “efforts are in top gear to arrest the fleeing suspects since.
