INEC Considers Postponing Enugu East Senatorial Election Following Alleged Murder of Labour Party Candidate

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it is considering a possible two-week postponement of the Enugu East senatorial election following the alleged murder of the Labour Party (LP) senatorial candidate, Oyibo Chukwu. The commission cited Section 34 of the Electoral Act as the legal basis for such a postponement. However, the commission clarified that the relevant section of the Electoral Act can only be activated if the political party involved officially notifies the commission.

Oyibo Chukwu, a lawyer and LP senatorial candidate, was reportedly attacked and murdered while returning from a campaign trip. He and several other individuals were allegedly burnt inside his vehicle. The incident has sparked outrage and raised concerns about the safety of politicians and their supporters during election campaigns.

The commission’s chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, expressed his condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, describing the incident as “tragic and unfortunate.” He stated that the commission is closely monitoring the situation and working with relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of political candidates and their supporters.

The postponement of the Enugu East senatorial election would allow the LP to field a new candidate in the wake of Oyibo’s death. However, the party has not yet officially notified INEC of its intention to do so. The delay in notification may hinder the commission’s ability to activate Section 34 of the Electoral Act and postpone the election.

This development highlights the need for increased security measures during election campaigns and calls for a swift investigation into the circumstances surrounding Oyibo’s death. The safety of political candidates and their supporters must be prioritized to ensure a free and fair electoral process.