The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Imo State has asked the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force to investigate a disputed document circulating on social media that allegedly presents former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha as the winner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary for Imo West.

The commission’s position was contained in separate letters dated October 5 and October 8, 2026, signed by the Imo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Chukwuemeka Ibeziako.

According to INEC, the document being circulated online conflicts with the official APC primary report submitted to its national headquarters. The commission described the disputed report as fictitious and requested a probe into how it was produced and circulated.

INEC maintained that the authentic report, dated May 18, 2026, identified Governor Hope Uzodimma as the winner of the APC primary for Imo West Senatorial District, also known as Orlu Zone. It said the party subsequently forwarded Uzodimma’s name as its candidate for the 2027 election.

The disputed document, however, allegedly listed Okorocha as the winner, prompting the electoral body to refer the matter to security agencies for investigation.

In its petition, INEC reportedly attached copies of both documents to assist investigators in examining the differences between the official record and the version circulating online.

The commission urged the DSS and police to establish the origin of the disputed document and take appropriate action based on their findings. It also warned that the circulation of conflicting election records could create tension and threaten public order in the state.

The development adds another layer to the disagreement over who should represent the APC in the Imo West senatorial contest. Okorocha had previously approached the court, challenging INEC’s recognition of Uzodimma as the party’s candidate.

However, the allegation concerning the disputed document remains a matter for investigation and due legal process. The commission’s request for a probe does not, on its own, establish that any named individual committed forgery.

The investigation is expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding the document and help establish which report reflects the records recognised by the electoral commission.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia