Explosion rocks Suleja INEC office

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 WITH a couple of hours to the start of Saturday's rescheduled National Assembly elections in Nigeria, an explosion on Friday rocked the Suleja, Niger State office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Unconfirmed reports say eight persons died in the blast

Spokesman to INEC Chairman, Kayode Idowu, confirmed the incident, but did not give any casualty figure.



Source: Explosion rocks Suleja INEC office

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Statement by Hon. Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the Explosion in Suleja, Niger State      

It is with heavy heart and sorrow that we received the news this evening of an explosion that occurred at the INEC LGA office in Suleja, Niger State. The unfortunate incident occurred when the Commission was deploying personnel and materials in preparation for tomorrow's National Assembly elections. We condemn this cowardly and dastardly action, which seems designed to instill fear in Nigerians and paralyze their aspirations for peaceful and credible elections.
Reports reaching the Commission indicate that there have been fatalities and injuries involving both regular and ad-hoc staff on national service. Investigations are still ongoing.
Our deep sympathies go to the families of all these young Nigerians who lost their lives or were injured. They have made enormous sacrifices in the service of their fatherland, and May God Almighty reward them appropriately.

Similarly, the Commission commiserates with the Director General, Management and all members of the National Youth Service Corps Scheme over this tragic incident.

All Nigerians must remain resolved not to allow the perpetrators of this dastardly act to achieve their aim of scuttling the aspiration of Nigerians for free, fair, peaceful and credible elections.

We are working closely with the security agencies to ensure that all those behind this mindless incident are tracked down and brought to justice very soon.
Thank you.

Prof. Attahiru M. Jega, OFR.
INEC Chairman

Statement by Hon. Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the Explosion in Suleja, Niger State