Gov. Fayemi condemns Election Violence, Orders Police To Arrest Perpetrators

Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has asked Police in the state to arrest those behind the violence that marred Saturday’s bye-election in Ekiti East Constituency 1 of the State House Assembly.

The governor, who condemned the violence, said that no one involved in the “dastardly act” would go unpunished.

A statement on Sunday quoted the governor as directing the State Commissioner of Police, Babatunde Mobayo, to ensure that everybody involved in the violent act is apprehended and brought to book regardless of their party affiliation.

The governor also commiserated with the families of those reported to have been killed in the mayhem as well as those who sustained injuries.

He said, “This violence is most unwarranted, and deeply disturbing. I have instructed the police authorities to fish out the perpetrators and ensure they face the music. Our condolences to the families that lost loved ones and those who were injured.

“The government would not relent in efforts to always ensure the safety of lives and properties. We shall ensure all purveyors of violence are brought to book.”

Earlier, the Independent National Electoral Commission suspended Saturday’s Ekiti East 1 State Constituency by-election indefinitely over cases of violence.

The commission announced the indefinite suspension in a statement issued by Mr Festus Okoye, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, in Abuja on Saturday.

Okoye said that the Commission received a report from the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ekiti State that the by-election was disrupted by violent attacks on voters, election officials, and security personnel.

He noted that INEC made adequate arrangements for the election, adding that personnel and materials arrived on time in all the 39 Polling Units spread across 5 Wards of the Constituency for the 23,670 registered voters to exercise their franchise in a free and fair process.

“However, no sooner had voting commenced than unidentified gunmen unleashed mayhem at some Polling Units, thereby disrupting the process.

“Unfortunately, some innocent voters were shot dead, but a policeman, some INEC regular and ad hoc staff who sustained gunshot injuries during the melee are receiving medical attention.

“This situation is unacceptable. In its avowed commitment to electoral integrity, the Commission has suspended the election indefinitely.”