Labour Party Supporters Protest at INEC Headquarters in Imo State

Supporters of the Labour Party (LP) staged a protest on Monday at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Owerri, the capital of Imo State.

The demonstration was prompted by the party’s alleged denial of access to documents used in the November 11 governorship election.

Senator Athan Achonu, the LP candidate in the election, claimed that INEC had refused to provide certified true copies of the election materials despite an official request.

LP State Chairman, Callistus Ihejiagwa, addressed journalists during the protest, expressing frustration with INEC’s handling of the situation.

Ihejiagwa, who spoke from a wheelchair, stated, “INEC is frustrating us. Nine days after an official request was made… this Commission has continued to deny our legal team access to certified true copies of documents used for the November 11 governorship election.”

He criticized the delay in releasing requested materials, questioning why INEC, which efficiently announced results within 12 hours of the election, was taking over 144 hours to issue supporting documents.

Ihejiagwa also highlighted the personal toll, recounting an incident where he was allegedly beaten and thrown out of the collation center on live television.

Ben-Opara Emmanuella, Head of the Department of Voter Education and Publicity of INEC in Imo State, addressed the protesters, acknowledging the LP’s application and assuring them that the request was being attended to.

“It’s your right to request for CTC. The materials are being assembled as we speak. We are already costing the material and by tomorrow we’ll give you the cost of payment,” Emmanuella stated.

The LP supporters gathered to voice their concerns, seeking transparency in the electoral process and access to crucial documents related to the governorship poll.

Further developments to follow.