Election observer shot dead in Enugu

A policeman has shot dead an election observer in Umuida community, Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze north local government area of Enugu state.

The observer whose identity is yet to be ascertained was shot in the head by the police officer stationed close to the residence of Ayogu Eze, governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Ebere Amarizu, spokesman of the Enugu police command, confirmed the incident to journalists.

He attributed it to “accidental discharge”.

The observer was first taken to St Mary’s Hospital in Enugu Ezike before he was transferred to another hospital in Enugu town.

The man was said to have had a confrontation with the policeman at a polling unit metres away from Eze’s residence.

A journalist based in Enugu told TheCable APC supporters and agents at the polling unit where the observer was killed, confronted journalists and observers.

There is palpable tension within the area following security reinforcement from the army and police.

Eze had asked his supporters to boycott the election after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declined his request for the election to be postponed.

He had asked for more time to campaign because his candidature was confirmed by the court two days ago.