The Abia State Government yesterday alleged a clandestine plan to burn down the INEC headquarters and offices in Umuahia to create the impression that Abia State is unsafe and that there is atmosphere of insecurity in the state.

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Godwin Adindu, said in a statement: “This plot is being hatched as a justification and reason to coerce the electoral tribunal sitting in Umuahia to relocate to Abuja.

“It is the same enemies of the people that burnt down the INEC office at Mgboko, headquarters of Obingwa Local Council that are hatching the wicked plot.

“Government therefore wishes to warn those involved in this anti-people and anti-democratic act to desist from it as the security forces have been notified and mandated to deal ruthlessly with anyone caught in the crime.”

•Photo shows INEC Ag. Chairman, Amina Zakari.