Fortunately, two of the three troublemakers who instigated the chaos were apprehended by the crowd and handed over to security personnel. They have been remanded in custody at the Ofoni Police Station while the two injured women are receiving treatment.
The violence caused a pause in the voting process as voters scampered for safety and some Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials took cover. However, voting at the GSS Ofoni polling unit has since resumed peacefully. The Deputy Governor was able to cast his vote at Ward 2, Unit 6 in Ofoni and urged the electorate to remain peaceful and orderly throughout the voting exercise. He stated that a credible process would ensure better development.
At the time of filing this report, the Police spokesman in Bayelsa State, SP Asinim Butswat, did not respond to calls made to him for a statement. It is unclear what action the police authorities have taken to address the situation, but we hope they will investigate the matter thoroughly and bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice.
This incident highlights the need for peaceful and orderly conduct during elections. It is crucial that all stakeholders, including political parties, their supporters, and law enforcement agencies, work together to ensure that the voting process is peaceful, transparent, and credible. Any form of violence or intimidation at polling units is unacceptable, and perpetrators must be held accountable for their actions.