Lauren Cochrane
Updated on: October 13, 2024 5:31 am GMT
Tensions have erupted at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Benin City, Edo State, following a controversial episode involving Governor Godwin Obaseki. The governor was forcefully removed from the premises early Sunday morning, shortly before the final collation of results for the Edo State governorship election was scheduled to take place.
*Protesters gather outside the INEC office during the tension-filled night in Benin City.*
Governor’s Presence Spurs Protests
The incident began in the early hours of Sunday when Obaseki entered the INEC headquarters around 2 a.m. Reports indicate that he sat close to the office of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), where the election results were being gathered. This move raised eyebrows, as opposition party members were quick to contest the legitimacy of his presence there.
By 3:30 a.m., a crowd of protesters from the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by running mate Dennis Idahosa, descended upon the INEC office, demanding that Obaseki vacate the premises. Protesters, frustrated by the situation, attempted to breach the gates but were held back by police.
Police Intervention
Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) Frank Mba, who was supervising the election, arrived at the scene amid the chaos and confronted Obaseki. He, along with a contingent of police officers, eventually escorted the governor out. Amid shouts from the officers urging him to “leave, leave,” Obaseki’s prolonged stay at the INEC headquarters became a focal point of conflict.
Surajudeen Basiru, the National Secretary of the APC, also addressed reporters outside the INEC office. Basiru claimed, “He is not a candidate. He has no reason to be here,” labeling the governor’s actions an abuse of power.
Calls for Rescheduling
As this dispute unfolded, INEC officials confirmed the postponement of the final collation of results, which was initially set for 10 a.m. The commission later announced that the new time would be 11 a.m., aiming to regain order amidst the unrest.
Obaseki had expressed concerns about perceived irregularities in the collation process, suggesting that it was not being conducted fairly. Observers noted the chaotic convergence of political tensions surrounding the election, with competing claims from both the APC and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) adding to the unease.
Opposing Views on Election Process
The political landscape has been particularly fraught as both parties contest the legitimacy of the unfolding election. The PDP deputy governorship candidate, Osarodion Ogie, arrived shortly before the protests escalated, voicing his own concerns about the collation process. However, police barred him and his supporters from entering the INEC headquarters, leading to confrontational interactions with journalists trying to cover the events.
“We have raised concerns, but we have been shut out,” Ogie lamented, as he attempted to clarify his party’s stance outside the barriers set up by law enforcement.
The Bigger Picture: Political Dynamics in Edo State
The events at INEC reflect broader political dynamics in Edo State, where rivalries between parties have intensified ahead of critical elections. The tension witnessed during the collation of results is emblematic of the fierce competition characterizing the Edo governorship race.
As both the APC and the PDP seek to sway public perception, moments of unrest such as this one underscore the importance of transparent processes in sustaining democratic integrity.
Conclusion: A Shift in Political Landscape?
The fallout from the early morning incidents at the INEC office raises questions not only about the immediate electoral processes but also about the overall health of democracy in Nigeria. As results continue to be collected and political pressures mount, the coming days will be crucial in determining the outcome of the Edo governorship election and the future political landscape of the region.
Stories from all over the country show that people are worried about the upcoming elections. Everyone hopes for a peaceful and fair voting process. The situation in Edo reminds us that Nigeria’s democracy still faces many challenges. It’s important for everyone to pay attention and make sure the elections are honest.
