Ballot Boxes, Others Destroyed As Fire Guts Delta INEC Office

A fire incident has razed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Ika North East local government area of Delta State.

INEC national commissioner and chairman, Information & Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun disclosed this in a statement yesterday.

He disclosed that 706 ballot boxes, 50 election bags, 322 apron vests, three electric power generators, among others were consumed by the fire.

He said the commission at its regular meetings took note of a preliminary report from the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Delta State, Etekamba Udo Umoren on the fire incident.
Olumekun said the report indicated that the incident occurred in the afternoon of Monday, December 2, 2024 as a result of a sudden power surge following the restoration of public power supply.

According to him, the stores section, where petrol generators and other items were kept, was completely razed.

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“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.

“Fortunately, 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.

“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,” Olumekun added.