Rotimi Amaechi, the presidential running mate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has alleged that political figures are actively seizing election result sheets from polling units. He cautioned that these actions place temporary Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) staff in grave danger.
Speaking to a group of young people, the former Rivers State governor noted that he has spent his entire career in politics since 1987. He emphasized that the polling unit is the crucial location where votes are cast and counted. Amaechi stated that politicians prioritize stealing these sheets over the safety of electoral officials, suggesting that parents should discourage their children from taking up such vulnerable positions.
Amaechi urged citizens to remain present until their votes are tallied at the polling stations. He suggested that if results are recorded and not uploaded, officials should not be permitted to leave. He further contended that mass mobilization by parties like the ADC could hold the commission accountable. He recalled past electoral contests, such as the one involving Rabiu Kwankwaso, to illustrate how public oversight at collection centers can prevent vote manipulation.
