Edo election peaceful despite tense political climate – Yiaga Africa

Yiaga Africa on Saturday said that despite a tense political climate, the Edo State governorship election, which was held today, began peacefully with minimal critical incidents.

Presenting its Mid-day Situational Statement on the 2024 Edo State Governorship Election, Chair of the 2024 Edo Election Mission, Yiaga Africa, Dr. Aisha Abdullahi, noted that logistical challenges caused delays in the commencement of accreditation and voting in several polling units.

Abdullahi however added that voters patiently waited to cast their votes despite these delays.

“The lack of vehicles to transport adhoc officials and election materials, and the absence of security personnel to accompany them, further contributed to the delays,” he said.

“Yiaga Africa is concerned over reports of intimidation of INEC officials to bypass the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in Akoko-Edo LGA, missing results sheets in Polling Unit 1 in Ward 8, Orhionmwon LGA, and disruptions caused by political thugs chasing voters from Polling Unit 5 in Uwessan Ward 2, Esan Central LGA. These infractions risk voter suppression and election manipulation.”

According to Abdullahi, Yiaga Africa calls on INEC to strictly enforce its guidelines and resist any pressure to deviate from the electoral legal framework.

“Yiaga Africa also commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and security agencies for their swift action in arresting suspected vote-buyers at polling units in Egor and Oredo LGAs.

“The commission should extend its operations to other LGAs where votes are being traded for N10,000 per voter even in the presence of security personnel.

“The Nigeria Police is also applauded for arresting and disarming political thugs with firearms on the eve of the election, contributing to a more secure election day environment.”