A polling officer arrived late to the collation facility in Ikwerre Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State during the ongoing 2023 presidential election, citing the need to shower and change clothes as the reason for the delay. The officer was responsible for delivering the election result sheets from polling centers to the collation facility.

Other polling agents also arrived late with their results, offering similar explanations for their prolonged absence. The delay caused frustration among political parties, who accused the agents of intentionally stalling the collation process.

Although the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to issue a statement on the matter, the delay caused by the polling agents has raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. Polling agents are responsible for ensuring that the votes are counted accurately and reported promptly, and any delay or irregularity in this process could cast doubt on the outcome of the election.

As the collation of results continues, it is essential that all parties involved in the electoral process remain committed to transparency and accountability. The delay caused by the polling agents must be investigated to ensure that there was no intentional effort to undermine the integrity of the election. The outcome of the election must reflect the will of the people, and any attempt to subvert the process must be met with appropriate sanctions.