Fire destroys over 700 ballot boxes at INEC office in Delta

A devastating fire engulfed the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC office in Ika North East Local Government Area LGA, of Delta State, destroying vital election materials.

The incident, which occurred on Monday, December 2, 2024, was caused by a sudden power surge following the restoration of public electricity supply.

According to a preliminary report from the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Delta State, Mr. Etekamba Udo Umoren, the fire started in the store section of the office where petrol generators and other equipment were kept. The fire completely razed the area, causing significant damage to election materials.

Among the destroyed items were 706 ballot boxes, 50 election bags, 322 apron vests, three electric generators, 140 stamps, and 50 ballot box seals. Additional items such as envelopes, posters, forms, and booklets were also lost in the inferno. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, and no injuries were sustained during the incident.

The Commission has reported the matter to the appropriate security agencies and emergency services for a comprehensive investigation. INEC commended the Nigeria Police Force and the Delta State Fire Service for their swift response to the fire.

Ika North East LGA is one of the 25 INEC offices in Delta State, with 14 Registration Areas (Wards), 238 Polling Units, and a total of 131,747 registered voters.

The fire incident has raised concerns about the safety of election materials ahead of upcoming polls, but INEC assured the public that it is taking steps to mitigate the effects of the damage.