By Precious Momoh
More crises are being reported as hoodlums attacked and partially set ablaze the office of the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC) located in the Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area on October 5, 2024. The incident has stirred tension, particularly due to its occurrence during the local government elections, with concerns about potential disruption of the electoral process.
According to the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, the attack occurred in the early hours of the day, but fortunately, election materials remained untouched. ASP Timfon John, the Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the situation, stating, “Some hoodlums partially set the AKISIEC office in Ibiono Ibom ablaze, but the election materials remained intact. The election is also ongoing.”
Increased Security and Election Continuity
Following the arson attack, security around AKISIEC offices has been significantly heightened to prevent further incidents. Police have been deployed to all electoral offices and key strategic locations across the state. ASP Timfon John further reassured the public, stating that the police are committed to ensuring that the elections proceed smoothly despite the setback. “We are working tirelessly to ensure the elections proceed without a hitch,” she emphasized, pointing to the continued efforts to uphold the integrity of the electoral process despite the attack.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident to apprehend those responsible, with the aim of maintaining peace and security throughout the ongoing election period. The swift response from the police and electoral officers helped mitigate what could have been a more disastrous disruption to the election.
Voters React to the Incident
The arson attack has caused concern among voters in the Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area. Many expressed their dismay at the rising tensions but remained determined to participate in the elections despite the violent act. One voter, speaking anonymously, shared, “It’s disheartening to see such violence during an election, but we won’t let fear stop us from voting.” The resolve of the electorate has remained firm, with many voters pledging to exercise their right to vote despite the security threats posed by the attack.
While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, it is speculated that the incident could be an attempt to disrupt the electoral process in Akwa Ibom. The attack raises questions about the state of security during the election and whether there are broader efforts to sabotage the exercise.
The situation with hoodlums points out the growing concern over the safety of electoral offices and personnel in politically charged environments. However, with security beefed up and additional measures in place, the authorities are determined to ensure that the election proceeds without further incidents. AKISIEC officials have also expressed their commitment to a smooth electoral process, undeterred by the violence.
In light of this incident, security agencies in Akwa Ibom are on high alert, working with electoral officials to maintain the credibility and transparency of the ongoing election. The police are urging citizens to remain calm and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities to prevent further disruptions.
This attack follows a series of security challenges that have emerged during local elections across the country, highlighting the need for enhanced vigilance and preventive measures. As investigations continue, the hope remains that those responsible for this act of arson will be swiftly brought to justice.
