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Fire Guts INEC Office In Delta Following Power Surge
He noted that the stores section where petrol generators and other items were kept was completely razed.
Asaba, Delta State- The office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State was gutted by fire on Monday, December 2, 2024.
The incident, which occurred in the afternoon, was reportedly triggered by a sudden power surge after the restoration of public electricity supply.
Confirming the incident in a statement released on Tuesday, by the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information & Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun
He noted that the stores section where petrol generators and other items were kept was completely razed.
The statement read, The Commission held its regular meeting today, Tuesday 3rd December 2024. Among other issues, the meeting took note of a preliminary report from the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Delta State, Mr. Etekamba Udo Umoren, on a fire incident at our Ika North East Local Government Areaa (LGA) office in Owa-Oyibu town.
“The report indicates that the incident occurred in the afternoon of Monday 2nd December 2024 as a result of a sudden power surge following the restoration of public power supply.
Olumekun explained that the Items destroyed in the inferno include 706 ballot boxes, 50 election bags, 322 apron vests, three electric power generators, 140 stamps, 50 ballot box seals and assorted items such as envelopes, posters, forms and booklets.
“Unfortunately, there were no injuries or fatalities.
“The incident has been reported to the security agencies and emergency services for a thorough investigation.
“The Commission appreciates the cooperation of the Nigeria Police Force and the Delta State Fire Service for their response,” Olumekun said.
He added that Ika North East is one of our 25 LGA offices in Delta State with 14 Registration Areas (Wards), 238 Polling Units and 131,747 registered voters.
