INEC Official Shot While on Election Duty in Cross River, Now Responding to Treatment
In a shocking incident that highlights the dangers faced by election officials in Nigeria, an ad hoc official of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Miss Glory Effiom Essien, was shot on Saturday, 18 March, 2023, while on her way to Bakassi Local Government Area in Cross River State. The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Cross River State, Prof Gabriel Yomeri, confirmed the incident and stated that the victim is now receiving medical attention at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital.
According to Yomeri, the unidentified gunman shot Miss Essien, but she is fortunately responding to treatment. Reports suggest that the shot was fired by one of the militants operating along the Bakassi creeks, and the bullet hit Miss Essien while she was in a speedboat heading towards Bakassi communities for the governorship and House of Assembly Elections. Witnesses say that she slumped and became unconscious before being rushed to the hospital.
The incident is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by election officials in Nigeria, particularly in areas that are prone to violence and unrest. It is also a reminder of the need for greater security measures to be put in place to ensure the safety of those who are tasked with conducting elections. The incident is currently under investigation, and we will bring you updates as more information becomes available.