INEC admits 63 Card Readers missing in Bayelsa

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has raised alarm over missing card readers in Bayelsa State, appealing to people in possession of the 63 missing card readers to return them before Saturday House of Assembly election in the state.

INEC had on Monday announced that 63 smart card readers used during the February 23 President and National Assembly elections were missing.

Wilfred Ifogah, Head of Department, INEC Voter Education and Publicity, identified that the affected local government areas where the cards were used include Brass, Sagbama, Southern-Ijaw, Nembe and Yenagoa.

Ifogah said that in Brass Ward 6, Unit 19, one smart card reader was missing, 24 missed in Nembe Wards 1, 4, 12 and 13, while 24 missed in Southern-Ijaw, Wards 1, 2, 3, 12 and 15.

“Eight card readers are missing in Sagbama Ward 1, Unit 5 and Ward 6 Unit 3, while in Yenagoa six are also missing in Wards 1, 11 and 16.

“Yes, about 63 card readers are missing. The Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr Monday Udom, has issued a statement that those involved should return them to INEC on or before Wednesday,” he stated.

Ifogah said that the commissioner has assured that those in possession of the card readers would not be victimised if they return the items.