Edo 2024: INEC Prepares for Results Collation Amid Obaseki’s Controversial Visit
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed its readiness for the Edo 2024 results collation following the state’s highly anticipated gubernatorial election. The exercise, which witnessed voter apathy and reports of electoral inducements, is being closely monitored as 17 political parties vied for leadership. Governor Godwin Obaseki’s visit to the collation center, which was not without controversy, has drawn reactions from INEC.
Voter Turnout and Contenders
With over 2.2 million Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) collected, Edo State voters cast their ballots across 4,519 polling units on September 21. The Edo 2024 results collation will determine the political future of three key contenders—Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Monday Okpebholo from the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP). These candidates represent the major political forces in the race to succeed Governor Obaseki, whose tenure ends in November.
Controversy Surrounds Obaseki’s Visit to INEC
Governor Obaseki’s unexpected visit to INEC’s collation center in Benin City during the early hours of Sunday has sparked heated discussions. INEC officials, in response to the governor’s appearance, questioned the timing and propriety of his presence at the center, particularly as results collation had yet to commence. While Obaseki stated that his visit was purely to gain clarity on the process, INEC remarked that such visits during the collation stage are unnecessary and could interfere with the integrity of the Edo 2024 results collation.
Police Escort Obaseki from INEC Premises
Tensions heightened as security operatives escorted Governor Obaseki out of the collation center at around 4:10 AM, after he had arrived without prior notice. The governor’s departure marked a turning point in the election’s unfolding events, with many questioning the political undercurrents of the election process. Meanwhile, the Edo 2024 results collation continued under increased security measures.
Accusations of Electoral Manipulation
As the election results trickle in, allegations of electoral malpractice have surfaced. The Director General of the PDP campaign team, Matthew Idoiyekemwem, accused prominent political figures, including APC’s Adams Oshiomhole, of attempting to manipulate figures in the ongoing vote tally. In contrast, INEC has maintained that its system is transparent and that any reports of misconduct will be investigated.
INEC’s Progress in Results Upload
INEC has made significant strides in the Edo 2024 results collation process. By Sunday evening, results from over 95% of the polling units had been uploaded to the commission’s online platform, IReV. The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Edo State, Anugbum Onuoha, assured the public that all results would be thoroughly reviewed before final collation at the state level.
Security Beefed Up Around Collation Center
Amidst the mounting tension, security has been bolstered around INEC’s headquarters in Benin City as officials prepare to finalize the Edo 2024 results collation. Civil society groups like Yiaga Africa have raised concerns about isolated cases of vote-buying and thuggery at polling units, while INEC has vowed to address any credible reports of electoral malfeasance.
Conclusion
As the people of Edo State await the outcome of the Edo 2024 results collation, all eyes are on INEC to ensure a transparent and credible process. The next few hours will determine who will take the reins of leadership and guide the state into a new chapter. Governor Obaseki’s controversial visit may add to the election’s already tense atmosphere, but the commission remains committed to upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
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