The Electoral Commission (EC) Returning Officer for the Ablekuma North constituency, Vincent Obeng, has resigned from his role in the ongoing collation of parliamentary results.

He stated that he would no longer respond to the commission's calls to continue the collation process.

Obeng explained that his decision was due to difficulties arising from the inability of presiding officers to authenticate the statements of the poll and the declaration forms.

Speaking in an interview with the media on Wednesday, January 8, Obeng disclosed that, out of seven polling stations, results from four had been successfully collated, leaving three outstanding.

“I hope you have all seen what is going on. Yesterday, we were left with seven polling stations to go. We came today, and we have been able to do four out of the seven.

“So, we’re left with three more. We brought our presiding officers here; two came, and they couldn’t authenticate the statements of poll and the declaration forms. One said she can't come. So that’s the three now. It is so unfortunate for me to make this statement, but I’m done with Ablekuma North. They should find a new returning officer to continue their work for them. Thank you,” he said.

In response, the EC’s Director of Training, Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, expressed regret over his remarks, attributing them to frustration.

He reassured the public that the Commission would address the issue and make efforts to bring him back to complete the process.

The collation process in Ablekuma North has been marked by intense tension. Earlier, a heated disagreement broke out over the inclusion of a disputed pink sheet, causing further delays.

Tensions peaked when a party official forcefully struck the table of Electoral Commission officials, sparking chaos among opposing party members.

The situation briefly escalated into physical confrontations before police intervened to restore order.

Presiding Officer Nathaniel Klimsman Avumeh reportedly denied validating figures from his polling station, adding to the complexities of the collation.

‘When you call me and I don’t come…’ – Watch as the returning officer for the Ablekuma North constituency announces he is quitting the job. This marks the second time he has quit the role.#ElectionBureau#CitiVerify#GhanaPolls2024 pic.twitter.com/TcQaEOTtfa

— ChannelOne TV (@Channel1TVGHA) January 8, 2025