Ad-hoc staffers of Independent National Electoral Commission and observers assigned to assist in the conduct of Ondo governorship election in Saturday narrowly escaped death in a boat mishap.
This was as a boat transporting INEC ad-hoc staff, election materials and observers has capsized in a river in Ilaje Local Government Area of the state.
A video sent by Yiaga africa and Kimpact Development initiative, obtained by TVC News shows all the occupants struggling to save their lives amidst the troubled waters as some were seen struggling to swim their way to the bank of the river.
Men of Nigerian Navy and some local divers were said to have rescued them, and fortunately the INEC ad-hoc staff made use of life-jackets.
Though the number of occupants cannot be readily determined for now, there were no casualties as rescue efforts are already ongoing.
However, most elections materials may not be retrieved owing to the fact that they had swept away by the river.
Mr Rufus Akeju, INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ondo State, stated this to newsmen in Akure on Saturday.
“INEC can confirm that there was an accident last night during the movement of personnel and materials to the Registration Areas of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State for today’s governorship election.
“Fortunately, all personnel and election materials were rescued when the boat capsized.
“This was made possible by the officers and personnel of the Nigerian Navy who escorted the boats.
“The movement was eventually concluded and voting commenced as planned in all the polling units today.”
Akeju commended the resilience and professionalism of the Nigerian Navy as well as other personnel involved in the exercise.
