The growing tension in Akwa Ibom ahead of March 9 governorship and state assembly elections took another dimension following report that fire has engulfed Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
KaftanPost gathered that the fire incident which began after explosion noise was heard, affected various electoral materials.
The cause of the fire remains unknown the state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mike Igini, has already visited the scene to ascertain the extent of damage.
Several card readers meant for use in the Saturday’s elections were said to have have been destroyed by the fire.
It is unclear how the incident would affect the conduct of the elections.
There is rising tension in Akwa Ibom over Saturday’s elections as this is happening barely 24 hours to the state’s polls.
Even though the state governor, Udom Emmanuel, has assured the people of their safety and security during the elections, there is widespread fear that there may be bloody clashes among supporters of the two main political parties – the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Mr. Emmanuel, who is contesting for a second term as governor, has Nsima Ekere of the APC as his main challenger.
Meanwhile, the Police has commenced investigation to ascertain the causes of the inferno.
