The Police in Nigeria are investigating two staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, for allegedly trying to smuggle seven card readers out of the premises of the INEC without due authorisation.

Confirming the arrest of Herbert Ejiofor and Nnamdi Nwabuko, the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Abia State, South-east Nigeria, Professor Selina Oko, totally condemned the action of her staff whom she said had been handed over to the police for thorough investigation.

“I am in charge and they were taking things out without my approval.

“If they had taken permission, I would not have approved it.

“How can I authorise a sensitive material to be moved out of the office.

“Since it is a police matter now, the police should investigate and take the right action,” she said.

Professor Oko also dismissed the fears from some quarters that the motive behind the incident may have to do with alteration of sensitive materials and result sheets which she said would not be possible because it would be detected.

Meanwhile, the Assistant Inspector General of Police in Zone Nine, Umuahia, Usman Gwary, confirmed the arrest, but would not comment further on it. saying investigation was ongoing.