Politics
INEC Allows Inspection of Edo Election Materials After PDP Protests
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has decided to permit the inspection of election materials and the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices used in the controversial Edo State governorship election.
This announcement comes in the wake of protests organized by members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who have been vocal about alleged irregularities during the election.
Previously, the legal team representing Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the PDP candidate, attempted to inspect these materials, but their efforts were thwarted.
In response to mounting public pressure and the calls for transparency, INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner for Edo State, Dr. Anugbom Onuoha, issued a letter on October 8, 2024, denying claims that the Commission had denied access to essential electoral materials.
Dr. Onuoha emphasized INEC’s commitment to upholding transparency and integrity within the electoral process.
He confirmed that the inspection would take place on October 9, 2024, at 10:00 am, at the INEC Headquarters in Edo State, a move many view as a step towards restoring faith in the electoral system.
In reaction to this development, the State Chairman of the PDP, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemin, hailed the decision as a significant victory for democracy and the rule of law.
He expressed gratitude to the people of Edo State for their unwavering support during the protests, which sought to challenge the perceived injustices surrounding the election process.
Aziegbemin stated, “I want to thank all those who came out to protest in support of Ighodalo’s quest to reclaim his stolen mandate.”
Despite his skepticism regarding the police and INEC—whom he believes colluded with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to undermine the election—he expressed unwavering confidence in the judiciary.
“I have lost faith in the police and INEC, but I have absolute confidence in the judiciary.
They will do right by the people of Edo State and uphold their decision to elect Asue as their governor,” he added.
This sentiment reflects a broader desire among many citizens for accountability and justice within Nigeria’s electoral landscape.
As the scheduled inspection approaches, all eyes will be on INEC and the judiciary to see how this situation unfolds.
The outcome could have significant implications for future elections in Nigeria, especially in restoring public confidence in the electoral process and ensuring that the voices of the electorate are truly heard and respected.
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has stated that the outcome of the 2027 general elections will be based on the performance of candidates, not defections.
The party stressed that defections alone do not win elections, noting that credibility, leadership, and results matter more. This was said in response to comments credited to former governor Rauf Aregbesola.
The APC also dismissed claims that the opposition’s performance in Lagos weakened the party, pointing out that voters later reaffirmed their support by re-electing the APC in the governorship election and subsequent polls.
Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has spoken on the allegation that terrorism and the increase in insecurity are linked to his administration in the state.
The governor then said “This is a country where when you work, you become a villain. I have kept quiet for too long for peace and security. But I am not a coward. I will not join them. I refuse to join their party,” he stated.
“We have built our health system, primary education, and reduced out-of-school children. We have been awarded three times by the federal government for development and good governance. And they are accusing us? What kind of paradox is this?”
Media personality Dele Momodu reacts and shares his thoughts regarding First Lady Remi Tinubu interrupting the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, during a recent event.
The event was the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi. In the scene, while Governor Adeleke was giving a speech, he began with a worship song. But while singing, the First Lady stood up and met him to inform him to stop singing and go directly to his speech instead.
Media personality Dele then reacted and questioned why she would do something like that, asking if she would have done the same kind of interruption if it were the recitation of the Qur’an.
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