The Bayelsa State capital, Yenagoa, is currently witnessing heightened tension as numerous supporters from different political parties eagerly await the final results of the governorship election, congregating outside the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office.
Upon hearing that result collation had commenced, supporters, predominantly youths, rushed towards the INEC office situated along Swali Road. The commission had temporarily adjourned the collation process until 3 pm after receiving results from three local government areas, namely Kolokuma/Opukuma, Ogbia, and Yenagoa.
During the break, party supporters, including women, were observed in two separate locations heading towards the INEC office, carrying chairs and securing positions close to the premises. Their intentions to enter the main premises were thwarted by soldiers and policemen stationed at strategic points, preventing further advancement.
To deter any potential unrest, three patrol vans and two Armoured Personnel Carriers, guarded by stern-looking operatives, were strategically positioned in opposite directions. As of the time of this report on Sunday afternoon, INEC had not yet resumed the collation process, contributing to the escalating tension in the area.