Elections update: INEC official, one other killed in Benue

MAKURD – A female adhoc staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, (name withheld) and a commercial motorbike operator were reportedly killed on Saturday morning, along the Obussa-Ebonyi road, in Oju local government area of Benue state. We learnt that the INEC staff had boarded the motorbike to Oju town where she was posted for election duties when she, alongside the bike operator, met their untimely death. According to the source,”they were riding on top speed at about 7:45 when the front part of the motorbike suddenly pulled of leading to the fatal accident and the instant death of the INEC staff. “Though the bike rider survived after sustaining seriously injuries he later died before receiving medical attention.” Reacting to the development, the Public Relations Officer, PRO, of INEC in Benue state, Mr. Louis Ochai confirmed that the deceased official was an adhoc staff who was moving to her place of assignment when the accident occurred. “We have already sent people there to give us a detailed report on the matter for further action. When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Assistant Superintendent, ASP, Austin Ezeani who confirmed the incident said the victims were on election duty when they met their untimely death. “I also want to state that aside this accident, we have not recorded any ugly incidents in the state, so far it has been a peaceful exercise in Benue state.”Ezeani said.