INEC Offices Shutdown In Kwara Over Bandit Attacks And kidnappings

Staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Patigi and Edu local government areas of Kwara State have vacated their offices and suspended operations following a surge in kidnappings and bandit attacks.

Security sources revealed that intelligence operatives had advised INEC workers to stay away from the volatile areas, warning that they could be easy targets for abduction. Lade town in Patigi has reportedly been deserted after repeated attacks.

Residents confirmed that INEC offices in the two councils have remained locked for most of the week, stalling the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise that began in August. Many locals say the suspension has further eroded confidence in government assurances of safety.

An INEC official disclosed that the chairman of the commission had told staff there would be no funds to pay ransom if any personnel were kidnapped. “We can’t risk our lives in the name of national service. If bandits could attack a community just two hours after the governor visited, then who is safe?” the staff member said.

Community leaders warned that insecurity was depriving citizens of their democratic rights. “People are eager to register to vote, but how can you go out when you’re not sure you’ll return alive?” a Patigi leader asked.

Meanwhile, residents accused Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of neglecting the crisis, alleging that he is abroad while communities in Kwara North remain under siege.

However, the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Hale Gabriel Longpet, dismissed reports that INEC staff had abandoned their duty posts. He admitted there were security concerns on the first day of registration but said the police and civil defence later provided cover.

According to him, registration is ongoing at the INEC council headquarters, though turnout is low because fear and insecurity discourage large gatherings. He urged reliance on verified eyewitness accounts rather than speculation.

The shutdown raises concerns that thousands of eligible voters in Edu and Patigi may be disenfranchised ahead of the 2027 elections if security is not restored.