UK Govt. speaks on military interference, issues strong warning on Rivers governorship election

The UK Government has condemned military interference in the March 9 governorship and State House of Assembly elections in Rivers State.

It also warned that it was watching the situation closely and that the staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), should be allowed to do their jobs without intimidation.

“Extremely concerned by reports, including from @UKinnigeria observers, of military interference in the election process in Rivers State.

“Monitoring the situation closely. @inecng staff must be allowed to do their job in safety, without intimidation,” a tweet from @UKinNigeria read.

INEC has suspended all electoral processes in Rivers state until further notice.

In a statement on Sunday, INEC explained that they took the decision due to widespread violence in the state, during the March 9 governorship and State Assembly polls.

The commission also claimed some of its staff were held hostage and materials including results sheets were destroyed.

INEC has established a fact-finding committee, to assess the situation and report back within 48 hours.