• Says INEC faces tough terrain 

Ahead Edo and Ondo states governorship elections, a report by Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) has indicated that a cloud of uncertainty hangs over the prospects for a peaceful voting process.  
 
The document specifically revealed that no local council in Edo State had the possibility of being relatively peaceful in the coming governorship election. 
The Team Lead of the organisation, Bukola Idowu, while presenting the Pre-Security Risk Assessment (PSRA) report in Abuja, highlighted flooding, violence, criminality as some of the significant risks that could impact credibility of the election process.

The document also stated that for the 2024 Edo State off-cycle governorship election, INEC would need meticulous planning due to the state’s many hard-to-reach areas, mostly rural and riverine.  
 
It stated that the high level of competition among candidates in Edo as evidenced by the active campaigns of the major parties, like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC) and Labour Party had added to the volatile atmosphere.

The report noted that seven council areas in the state were projected as very likely to experience violence, while the rest were projected as somewhat likely to experience violence.  

“Such intense political rivalry often heightens tensions and can exacerbate the likelihood of unrest. The fierce competition underscores the stakes involved and suggests that the election might be marked by heightened friction. In this context, the uncertainty surrounding the election’s peacefulness mirrors the broader instability in the political landscape, making it crucial for all stakeholders to remain vigilant and proactive in efforts to ensure a smooth and peaceful electoral process”, the report stated. 

Head of Research and Strategy KDI Oluwafemi Adebayo, said the lack of strong internal party democracy had intensified post-primary hostilities and conflicts within political parties, undermining unity and trust.

“In Edo State, this has resulted in significant discord and tension. Factions within major parties like the APC and PDP, leading to defections and a fragile political environment that may hinder the election process. In Ondo State, the fallout from the primaries has led to public defections and ongoing disputes, which may escalate as the election approaches”.
 
According to Adebayo, both states have a troubling history of political violence, criminal activities, kidnapping and community conflicts, which may hamper]r security of election environment.
 
“Despite high political engagement, many citizens still lack essential electoral knowledge, increasing the risk of misinformation and misconceptions,” he added.
 
Chairman, Senate Committee on Election Matters, Sharafadeen Alli, lauded the KDI report, acknowledging that it would equip key election stakeholders, especially INEC, on effective planning for efficient service delivery.