Amber Phillips
Updated on: October 13, 2024 5:28 am GMT
In a tense atmosphere, the results of the Edo State governorship election are set to be collated today after a series of protests and alleged irregularities during the voting period. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed that the process will begin at 10 AM, following disruptions that prompted a delay.
Tension Erupts at INEC Headquarters
The Edo State capital, Benin City, experienced a wave of tension early Sunday morning as protests erupted over the electoral process. After a meeting between Governor Godwin Obaseki and INEC officials, the final collation of results was postponed to 11 AM. Conflict arose as party representatives expressed concerns about the integrity of the vote counting.
- The governor’s four-hour meeting with INEC and police officials aimed to address the alleged compromise in the collation process.
- Meanwhile, protesters from the All Progressives Congress (APC) rallied outside the INEC headquarters, demanding an end to what they claimed was an interference in the election process.
The situation escalated as accusations flew back and forth, with both sides seeking to protect their interests in the election.
Concerns Over Collation Process
The electoral environment remains fraught with allegations and accusations of malpractice. Onlookers watched as various party members, including Dennis Idahosa, the APC deputy governorship candidate, vocally protested against Obaseki’s presence in INEC. Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of the APC, criticized the governor, calling his behavior “thuggish.”
Furthermore, Osarodion Ogie, representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), expressed his discontent with INEC handling, claiming that PDP agents were barred from accessing the collation center.
“I went to complain to INEC because we were not allowed in,” he shared with reporters, highlighting a lack of transparency in the electoral proceedings.
The perception of bias grew when police officers reportedly tried to force journalists to leave the INEC premises.
Allegations of Violence and Intimidation
Reports of violence surfaced with Yiaga Africa, an election observation group, detailing that election observers and INEC officials had been affected by tear gas during the collation process. Ighodalo, the PDP candidate, criticized INEC and police for what he believed was an organized effort to subvert the electoral process.
- “Our agents started telling us that they’re not being allowed into INEC headquarters,” he explained. “There’s too much confusion, and it seems like there’s collusion between INEC and the police.”
The call for transparency is critical, as violative actions diminish the public’s trust in the electoral process. Yiaga Africa urged INEC to adhere to proper protocols in collating results, emphasizing that moving local government area (LGA) results to the state headquarters contradicted the electoral rules.
The State of the Election
This governorship election features candidates from various parties, with the Labour Party, PDP, and APC as notable contenders. With around 2.2 million registered voters, participation appears low, with estimates suggesting a turnout of below 40%.
Candidates:
- Olumide Akpata (Labour Party)
- Asue Ighodalo (PDP)
- Monday Okpebholo (APC)
The newly elected governor will succeed Godwin Obaseki, whose administration has faced scrutiny on multiple fronts over the past four years.
Public Reactions and Next Steps
Public response to the unfolding events has been one of concern, with many expressing disbelief at the visible disruptions in what should be a democratic process. Observers and party agents have continued to call for transparency and adherence to established electoral guidelines.
INEC assured the public that the collation process would begin today under strict supervision and transparency, but the interplay of accusations leaves many feeling uncertain about the outcome.
The situation is changing as important people keep an eye on the vote counting process. It’s really important for INEC to be open and honest to help everyone trust the election in Edo State. As things happen, people are excited and waiting for the results, hoping that their votes will be counted fairly in this important election.
