PARIS OLYMPIC GAMES
A coalition of 51 Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)-accredited observers has given the Edo State governorship election a thumbs up, declaring it transparent, free, fair, and credible.
While expressing relief that there were no fatalities on election day, the coalition noted the relatively low voter turnout, which was largely due to unfavourable weather conditions.
At a media briefing led by Dr. Gabriel Nwambu, Director of the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, the organization affirmed that the Edo State governorship election adhered to the Electoral Act of 2022 and the amended 1999 Constitution.
The coalition strongly condemned the post-election actions of Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, specifically his media briefing where he prematurely declared his party’s candidate the winner of the Edo State governorship election.
The observers submitted that Fintiri’s action blatantly contravenes Sections 178 and 179 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
They maintained that his actions undermined the authority of INEC, adding that such behaviour is unbecoming of a public office holder and could erode public trust in our democratic process.
The group is calling for Fintiri to face accountability for allegedly overstepping his authority.
They are advocating for legal action to be taken against him once his immunity is lifted in 2027.
The group is further pushing for investigations into election-day logistics issues, such as the lack of police escorts and transport worker delays, to prevent similar problems in future elections.
The coalition praised the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for the officers’ professionalism during the election, as well as INEC for conducting a credible process.
Ultimately, they commended the people of Edo State for their peaceful conduct, showcasing their commitment to harmony and stability.
The statement reads: “We observed the distribution of both sensitive and non-sensitive election materials from the Central Bank of Nigeria in Benin City to the local government offices of INEC.
“The subsequent distribution to various Registration Area Centres (RAC) was executed under tight security.
“We noted that the election materials were ultimately moved to the 4,518 units by INEC ad hoc staff, predominantly National Youth Service Corps members.
“Voting commenced between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM in most observed polling units. The delay in some areas was due primarily to heavy rainfall, with a few instances of logistical challenges noted.
“In certain RAC centres, electoral materials and staff were prepared for movement but lacked police escorts. Although these instances were minimal, they warrant attention. Vote buying was observed in some polling units, notably more sophisticated than in previous elections.
“An incident of concern involved military personnel denying access to accredited observers, despite proper identification. We were relieved to report that the election concluded without violence, despite the inflammatory remarks made by some politicians, including the outgoing governor, who referred to the election as a “do or die” affair.
“The collation of results was conducted meticulously, adhering to the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022 Amended, and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.”
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