Residents of Edo State, Nigeria, are heading to the polls today to decide who will succeed Governor Godwin Obaseki in the Edo governorship election, with over 2.2 million permanent voter cards (PVCs) collected.
Candidates Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP) are contesting for the coveted seat at Osadebe House.
In preparation for the election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has delivered materials to all 18 local government areas in the state, ensuring readiness for the polls. The Edo INEC Public Relations Officer, Toyin Buoro, confirmed this, stating that the materials are now in place for the election.
“All the local government offices have received the materials, and we’ve also set up Super Registration Area Centres to ensure easy access and security,” Buoro said.
Parties Show Readiness, But Raise Concerns
The three leading political parties have expressed confidence in their preparedness for the election. However, concerns over potential election-day disruptions loom large.
Peter Uwadiae, the APC’s Publicity Secretary in Edo, emphasized the party’s confidence in securing victory, citing an extensive issue-based campaign.
“We have campaigned thoroughly, and we are prepared for a fair election,” Uwadiae said. “However, there are concerns about certain individuals, including those linked to the killing of a police officer at Benin Airport, who are allegedly mobilizing for violence in Edo Central and South.”
Similarly, the PDP’s Deputy Director General of Media, Dr. Pedro Obaseki, voiced fears about potential disruptions, specifically in Oredo, Egor, Uhunmwonde, and Ovia federal constituencies.
“There are strategic plans to compromise the process in these areas. We urge security agencies to be vigilant,” Obaseki warned.
Labour Party Public Relations Officer, Sam Uruopa, assured that LP candidate Akpata has conducted extensive outreach, covering all 18 local governments and over 193 wards. He also urged INEC to maintain neutrality.
“Akpata has visited even the riverine areas with speedboats, ensuring that his manifesto reaches all corners of the state. We urge INEC to be an unbiased umpire,” Uruopa stated.
Election Hotspots Identified
The contest is expected to be most fierce in Edo Central, where both Okpebholo and Ighodalo hail from. Edo North remains a stronghold for the APC, where former Governor Adams Oshiomhole holds significant influence. However, the PDP has made gains in the region since last year’s presidential election, and the return of political heavyweights such as Mathew Urhoghide and Charles Idahosa has bolstered their chances.
Olumide Akpata, representing the LP, is banking on his popularity in Edo South, where the LP has enjoyed recent successes. His candidacy was described as a surprise to many, but Akpata remains optimistic about his chances, having campaigned extensively across the state.
INEC Urges Citizens to Vote Peacefully
INEC has emphasized the need for a peaceful election and assured citizens that security operatives will collaborate to ensure a smooth process. A senior official from the electoral body highlighted the extensive preparations made for the election.
“The conduct of this election is a major task, but INEC is fully prepared,” the official said. “We are working with law enforcement to create a conducive environment for voters.”
Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Onuoha Anugbum, confirmed that sensitive materials had been distributed to the local governments, with political parties and security agencies present to observe the process.
“Everything is in place, and we expect a smooth election process,” Anugbum added.
President Tinubu Calls for Peaceful Election
President Bola Tinubu urged Edo residents, political parties, and candidates to conduct themselves peacefully during the election. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president called for respect for the democratic process.
“The President implores candidates and their supporters to allow the will of the people to prevail. Democracy thrives on civility, tolerance, and respect for the rules of the game,” the statement read.
Concerns Over Vote-Buying and Violence
Yiaga Africa’s Executive Director, Samson Itodo, expressed concerns over the possibility of vote-buying, citing the country’s economic challenges as a factor.
“Political actors are exploiting poverty to induce voters with cash and other incentives,” Itodo said. “We have also identified certain polling units as hotspots for electoral violence, particularly in Edo South.”
Itodo added that while the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) would be present on the ground to address vote-buying, enforcement and prosecution have historically been weak.
Movement Restrictions Imposed
In a bid to ensure a smooth electoral process, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, announced restrictions on vehicular movement from 6 am to 6 pm on election day. In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP urged citizens to report any suspicious activities during the polls.
“Security operatives will be fully on the ground to ensure a peaceful election. Citizens should cooperate by adhering to the restrictions,” the statement read.
Panic Buying and Fully Booked Hotels Ahead of Election
In the lead-up to the polls, Edo residents engaged in panic buying, with markets and petrol stations witnessing long queues as people prepared for the restriction of movement. Hotels across the state were fully booked as political party supporters and observers filled the state capital.
Despite the rush, the atmosphere remained calm, with heavy security deployed in strategic locations across the state.
As the people of Edo State prepare to vote, all eyes are on INEC and security agencies to ensure a free, fair, and peaceful election.
