A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised the alarm over an alleged plot to bomb headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja.

The ex-APC spokesman, who is an ally of presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), claimed that the plot was aimed at scuttling the polls rescheduled for Saturday, February 23, 2019.

In a statement made available to The Guardian, he accused those bent on truncating democratic rule of being behind the plot, saying they do not care even if it amounts to breakdown of law and order or loss of lives, as long as they achieve their aims.

“Top among the planners are three serving ministers from the Niger Delta, two former governors and three businessmen within the ruling party who are currently benefiting from government’s largesse.

“Following the postponement of the February 16, 2019 polls and realising that the plan for staggered elections has failed, the desperate politicians are at it again, devising another dastardly plot against the Nigerian people,” he stated.

He cited the mysterious fire on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) facilities happening the same time in parts of the country a few days before the elections.

“Starting with the burning of INEC office in Quan-Pam, Plateau State, to burning of Card Readers in Anambra State, burning of INEC materials in five buses at Akwa Ibom and other INEC facilities nationwide, it will be safe to argue that these events are not coincidental, but a grand plot to disenfranchise opposition strongholds, which is currently underway..”

“We are also aware that the services of some Niger Delta militants are being sought in carrying out the dastardly act, at a time when the region is experiencing its worst times under the current administration.

“The militants are being promised military backing, as well as being rewarded handsomely should they succeed in carrying out the attacks,” he stated.

He commended the EU, UK, U.S., ECOWAS Monitoring group for their roles and for them to continue with their support and to further beam their satellite on Nigeria in the wake of revelations at a time when the country prepares for general elections.

While urging security agencies to beef up security and surveillance around INEC’s Headquarters, he asked the INEC Chairman to remain resolute in delivering its mandate to Nigerians on February 23.

source: The Guardian