INEC DEBUNKS ‘RENEWED HOPE’ SIGNAGE CLAIMS, SAYS BUILDING NOT ITS RIVERS OFFICE

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By ‘Sefiu Ajape

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed claims circulating on social media that a building displaying the “Renewed Hope” signpost and banner belongs to its Rivers State office.

In a statement issued by the Administrative Secretary in Rivers State, Dr. (Mrs.) Angela I. Ebhodaghe, the Commission described the report as false and misleading, insisting that the building in question is not part of its premises.

“Our attention has been drawn to a report circulating in the social media alleging that the picture of a building hosting the signpost and banner of the Renewed Hope Movement is INEC Rivers State’s office.

“This is both false and misleading and the Commission categorically rejects these claims,” the statement read.

INEC clarified that the building does not belong to the Commission and that none of its offices bear such political signages.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the said building does not belong to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Rivers State, neither does our office have such signages on any part of its premises,” it added.

The Commission explained that the confusion may have arisen from the proximity of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), which shares a boundary with the building referenced in the viral claim.

“It is clear that the generators of the false information confused the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), which shares a fence with the said building with our office,” the statement noted.

INEC warned against the spread of unverified information, stressing its potential to undermine public trust and national unity.

“The spread of false information is harmful to national unity and public trust. We therefore urge members of the public to verify claims through credible and official channels before sharing or publishing them.”

Reaffirming its neutrality, the Commission stated that it remains committed to its mandate as an independent electoral body.

“As an umpire, INEC remains neutral and will continue to uphold its mandate as an independent body,” the statement added.