Staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have reportedly abandoned their offices in several Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Kwara State following a surge in bandit attacks that have displaced many residents.
According to sources, INEC personnel halted operations in affected LGAs due to growing fears over the unpredictability of these attacks, which often occur without warning.
The sudden closure of offices has disrupted voter registration activities, particularly in Patigi and Edu LGAs. Lade town, one of the hardest-hit communities, has been largely deserted as residents flee in response to repeated raids by armed groups.
“The staff are terrified. No one wants to risk being kidnapped or attacked while on duty,” a source familiar with the situation told reporters on Tuesday morning.
Another insider warned that a potential abduction could spark national outrage and place immense pressure on the government.
Residents confirmed that INEC offices in the affected areas have remained closed for most days, stalling the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise which began in August.
There are growing concerns that the suspension of services could erode public trust in the government’s ability to ensure security.
One INEC official, speaking anonymously, revealed that the commission has not provided any concrete assurances about staff safety.
The official also claimed that the INEC chairman had made it clear that ransom would not be paid in the event of a kidnapping.
“We can’t risk our lives for national service when there’s no guarantee of safety,” the official stated.
Community leaders have raised alarm over the broader implications for democracy in the region.
“People want to register and vote, but fear is holding them back. Insecurity is robbing us of our right to participate in the electoral process,” said one leader.
Some residents blamed Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s absence from the state for the escalating crisis, accusing him of neglecting the worsening security situation.
“The governor is abroad while our communities are under siege. People are left to fend for themselves,” lamented a local resident.
However, when contacted, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Kwara, Hale Longpet, denied claims that INEC offices had been abandoned.
He insisted that voter registration was ongoing with the support of the police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
“Our offices are located in town centers, not remote areas. Security has been reinforced, and registration is still in progress,” Longpet said, although he acknowledged that turnout has been slow due to lingering fear and insecurity.
