#EdoDecides2024: Observer groups criticize election for failing to meet standards

At least 25 observer groups have expressed disappointment with the recent governorship election in Edo State, stating that it did not meet expectations.

In a statement released on Wednesday, representatives including Mrs. Rose Akhigbe, Peter Nwokolo, Anyasor Gabriel, and Sunny Elekwa criticized the results collation process, claiming it did not adhere to the Electoral Act of 2022.

While the groups acknowledged that results from over 4,500 polling units and some wards were satisfactory, they rejected the collation of ward and local government results conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Benin City, deeming it illegal.

The statement noted, “We reject the result declared because there are two sets of result sheets. One was taken to the field, and another was given to the APC in Edo North and parts of Edo South and Central.”

The observer groups reported incidents of disruption at collation centers by military and police personnel, as well as intimidation of INEC officials. They raised serious concerns about the credibility of the results.

“We reject the results of the election that declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, as the winner. There was a militarized atmosphere and rampant impunity at the ward, local government, and state collation centers. INEC, military, and police actions violated the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 regarding results collation. Results were only accurately gathered at the polling units and some wards.”