- No lives were lost in the attack
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Sankara, the headquarters of Ukum Local Government Area in Benue State, was destroyed by community youths on Wednesday.
The destruction occurred during protests against increasing bandit attacks in the area, which also targeted other government facilities.
Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, confirmed that no lives were lost in the attack. He assured the public that security agencies were promptly informed and had deployed personnel to manage the situation.
Olumekun said the incident “occurred at 2pm today, Wednesday 3rd July 2024, when the youths in the area said to be protesting against the activities of bandits attacked facilities of government agencies, including INEC”.
“Although no casualties were reported, the building has been extensively damaged. Office furniture and other movable and immovable materials, including 10 electric generators, 300 ballot boxes and 270 voting cubicles, were destroyed in the attack.
“The attention of security agencies has been drawn to the incident and they have already deployed their personnel to the area,” it added.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Benue State, Prof. Sam Egwu, reported the extensive damage to the Sankara office.
The incident has drawn the attention of security agencies, who are actively working in the area to ensure stability and prevent further escalation of violence.