The Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Onuoha Anugbum, alongside political party representatives and security agencies, supervised the distribution of sensitive election materials.
Benin City, Nigeria – As Edo State residents head to the polls today, three major political candidates are battling to secure the top spot.
With over 2.2 million permanent voter cards collected, the contenders — Senator Monday Okpebholo (All Progressives Congress), Asue Ighodalo (Peoples Democratic Party), and Olumide Akpata (Labour Party) — are vying for votes to occupy Osadebe House, the state’s government house.
The current governor, Godwin Obaseki, is set to vacate the office on November 11 after serving two terms.
Party Readiness and Concerns
The APC’s Publicity Secretary, Peter Uwadiae, expressed confidence in his party’s preparation, pointing to their issue-based campaign. However, Uwadiae raised concerns over alleged electoral violence, accusing certain individuals in Edo Central of planning to disrupt the polls.
The PDP also voiced concerns about potential election disruptions. Dr. Pedro Obaseki, the Deputy Director General of Media for Asue Ighodalo’s campaign, warned that thugs could target areas like Oredo, Egor, Uhunmwonde, and parts of Ovia Federal Constituency to compromise the election process.
Labour Party’s Public Relations Officer, Sam Uruopa, assured the public that Akpata was well-prepared, having campaigned across all 18 local government areas, including the riverine regions. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a fair election.
Key Battlegrounds
Edo Central is expected to be a major battleground, as both Okpebholo and Ighodalo hail from the zone. Okpebholo is banking on his political mentorship under the late Tony Anenih, while Ighodalo hopes to capitalize on the PDP’s support in parts of Edo South.
Edo North, traditionally an APC stronghold, has seen increasing support for the PDP since last year’s presidential election, with local political heavyweights such as former governor Adams Oshiomhole and the state’s Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, playing significant roles.
Akpata, representing the Labour Party, has focused heavily on Edo South, where he enjoys substantial support, but has also made efforts to gain traction across the state.
INEC’s Preparations and Reassurances
INEC has assured voters that all necessary election materials have been distributed to the 18 local government areas, with voting expected to start as scheduled. Toyin Buoro, the PRO of Edo INEC, confirmed the creation of Super Registration Area Centres (RACs) for better logistics and security.
The Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Onuoha Anugbum, alongside political party representatives and security agencies, supervised the distribution of sensitive election materials.
Calls for Peace
President Bola Tinubu urged all candidates and voters to respect the democratic process and ensure a peaceful election. He praised the professionalism of security agencies and INEC, expressing confidence in the election’s integrity.
Yiaga Africa, an election monitoring group, raised concerns about vote-buying and potential violence. The group noted that economic hardship could lead to voter inducement, with offers of free fuel and cash to influence votes.
Security Measures
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered restrictions on vehicular movement across Edo State from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on election day to maintain peace. Special attention will be given to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities.
Security presence has been heightened, particularly in areas like Oredo, where political thugs reportedly attempted to disrupt the election process. The state government commended the military for repelling these attempts.
Final Preparations
Ahead of the election, residents engaged in last-minute shopping and travel to comply with movement restrictions. Hotels in key areas reported full bookings, with political party supporters occupying most rooms. Despite the rush, the atmosphere remained calm as Edo prepares for what is expected to be a fiercely contested election.
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