CURRENT REPORT BLOG In a dramatic turn of events, Imo State became the epicenter of political tension as supporters and members of the Labour Party (LP) took to the streets to protest the alleged delay by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in releasing the Certified True Copies (CTC) of the recently concluded governorship election results. Led by LP Chairman Calistus Ihejiagwa, the protestors accused INEC of obstructing their efforts to challenge the election outcome and demanded transparency in the electoral process.
The Protest Scene
Chanting slogans and displaying placards with messages such as “INEC, Justice delayed is Justice denied” and “INEC should be independent,” the LP members voiced their frustration with the delay in obtaining the CTC. Ihejiagwa, speaking to journalists, claimed that the declared results did not accurately represent the events at the polling units. He alleged collusion between INEC, security agents, and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to compromise the election.
The Controversial Collation Room Incident
Ihejiagwa shared a shocking account of an assault he faced during an earlier visit to INEC, where he was reportedly beaten and thrown out of the collation room. He claimed this incident occurred when he demanded that the “right thing” be done. Despite the alleged assault affecting his spinal cord, Ihejiagwa remains resolute in his quest for justice, demanding the release of the CTC to challenge the results in court.
INEC’s Response
Emmanuelle Opara, the INEC Head of Voter Education and Logistics, responded to the accusations, acknowledging the LP’s application for the CTC. Opara assured that INEC is assembling the results and will notify the party when they are ready. She emphasized that the LP has the right to access the CTC and suggested that the delay is a procedural matter rather than an intentional act to frustrate the party.
The Road Ahead
The unfolding saga in Imo State underscores the importance of transparency and efficiency in the electoral process. As the LP continues its push for the CTC, the nation watches to see how this dispute will shape the post-election narrative. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
