Gunshots and Panic as Armed Hoodlums Attack INEC Officials in Osun, Cart Away PVCs and BVAS Devices

There was panic in Osun State after suspected armed hoodlums reportedly attacked officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), making away with electoral materials, including PVCs and BVAS devices.

The incident reportedly occurred at the Oyinlola DC School, Ward 2, Okuku, in Odo-Otin Local Government Area, where INEC officials were attending to residents who had arrived to collect their voter cards. According to reports, about 10 armed hoodlums stormed the PVC collection centre and allegedly fired gunshots into the air, causing residents and INEC officials to flee in different directions.

Amidst the chaos, the attackers were said to have carted away electoral materials including packs of PVCs and Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices. The attack has raised concerns ahead of the forthcoming Osun State governorship election with many residents expressing fears for the safety of election materials and officials involved in the election process.

Meanwhile, the Osun State Police Command has commenced investigation into the incident. According to reports, the Commissioner of Police has directed a thorough investigation into the incident to enable the police to identify, arrest and prosecute the offenders.

According to the commission, security agencies are expected to investigate the incident, recover the stolen materials and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.  

The incident has since sparked widespread reactions online, with Nigerians calling for tighter security around PVC distribution centres and stronger protection for electoral officials.

With the Osun governorship election drawing closer, the latest incident has once again placed the spotlight on election security and the urgent need to protect both voters and the integrity of the electoral process.