The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has won all chairmanship positions in the recent council elections held on Saturday, September 22.
Prof. Christian Ngwu, Chairman of the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC), announced the results and praised the commission for conducting a free and fair election.
He described the election as the most transparent yet, noting that the results were meticulously collated and analysed to prevent any errors.
“We carefully collated and analysed the results to ensure that there were no mistakes,” he said.
However, none of the candidates from opposition parties, who contested the chairmanship position visited the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) where the election results were announced.
Expressing his excitement at the victory, Greg Amyaegbudike, the chairman-elect for Oji River local government, stated that youth empowerment would be his top priority.
He committed to providing jobs for employable individuals and organizing skills acquisition programs that would benefit the entire community.
“I’ll make sure that the youth of Oji River are gainfully employed. Those who are employable will get employed,” he said.
Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has failed to deliver his Oredo local government area for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Saturday’s governorship election.
The All Progressives Congress polled 30,780 while the PDP got 24,938 votes in the result announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Winning election in Oredo has been a difficult task for Obaseki since he assumed power.
In both 2020 and 2023 general elections, Obaseki failed to produce the House of Representatives lawmaker for Oredo federal constituency.
He also failed to produce the Senator for Edo South senatorial district in both elections.
Edo polls: PDP’s supporters storm INEC office, allege manipulation of results
From Osagie Otabor, Benin
Supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State held a peaceful protest at the state headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), causing significant traffic congestion on the Benin-Abuja highway.
Some protesters sat on the road while security forces maintained a barrier to the INEC office, which was heavily guarded in response to the demonstration.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) currently leads based on results from 17 local government areas, but protesters claimed that the announced results were manipulated, differing from those reported at the polling units.
One of the protesters, identified as Frank, called for President Bola Tinubu to intervene and investigate the situation.
He said: “What we are saying is that we will not allow anyone to tamper with the wish of the Edo people. People have voted for our candidate (Igodalo) and some people want to use the power from above to turn the results upside down, we won’t accept it. No, we won’t.
“We have the authentic results with us and the ones they announced are different, that means someone has tampered with the results, we will not take it.
“We are appealing to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in this matter, some people should not burn our state.”
Edo polls: PDP cautions INEC against declaring result
…calls for review of result
From Raymond Mordi, Bisi Olaniyi and Osagie Otabor
The Peoples Democratic Party in Edo State has cautioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against announcing the results of the just concluded governorship election in the state.
It called on the electoral body to review results being declared by its Local Government Returning Officers and the results uploaded on Irevs portal.
Edo state chairman of the PDP, Tony Aziegbemi, who spoke at a press conference in Benin City, said preliminary findings showed massive irregularities, unjust inflation of APC votes, and deduction of PDP votes in the collation of results.
Aziegbemi noted that the summation of figures on the form EC8C ought to be uploaded on the Irev portal.
He said results announced by the LGA returning officer should tally with the uploaded figures.
The Ondo PDP Chairman said the discrepancies occurred across the 18 local government areas in the state.
He insisted: “Asue will be declared Governor after the anomalies have been cleared.
“INEC should use the window to review the result before the announcement. If INEC does not do that, it will undermine the gains recorded under its current chairman.
“You cannot have three different figures from the same election.
“These anomalies happened across the 18 local government areas. It is in the interest of INEC not to declare the results until they go through the anomalies.
“If the review affects us, so be it. We are not saying check only where APC won but across the board. It is our right to demand INEC to query the BVAS.
“A simple collation of all the votes recorded in the polling unit results uploaded on the IREV shows that the APC obtained 25,010 votes while 34,847 votes were recorded in the EC8C declared by the LGA Returning Officer. While for the PDP, a collation of the votes from the results uploaded on the IREV is 18,620 but 15,865 was returned on the EC8C declared by the LGA Returning Officer.
“It would interest you that in Ward 9 Akoko Edo LGA, from the 36 Polling Unit results uploaded on the IREV, the total votes obtained by APC is 2,350 while 9104 was entered into the EC8B result for APC. The total votes for PDP is 1359 while 633 were entered in the EC8B.
“Also, in Ward 6 Akoko Edo LGA, where elections were not held in Ward 6 Units 12, 17, 15, 18, 14, and 16, results were returned for the said polling units in the Ward Result sheet (EC8B).
“In Egor LG, a simple collation of all the votes recorded in the polling unit results uploaded on the IREV shows that the APC obtained 10,972 votes while 16,760 votes were recorded in the EC8C declared by the LGA Returning Officer. While for the PDP, a collation of the votes from the results uploaded on the IREV is 14,485 but 14,658 were returned on the EC8C declared by the LGA Returning Officer.
“It would interest you to note that the collation of the Egor LGA was not done at the designated LGA centre but was moved to the INEC State HQ and the PDP agent was not allowed access to be part of the exercise.
“A simple collation of all the votes recorded in the polling unit results uploaded on the IREV shows that the APC obtained 29,858 votes while 32,107 votes were recorded in the EC8C declared by the LGA Returning Officer. While for the PDP, a collation of the votes from the results uploaded on the IREV is 16,712 but 17,483 was returned on the EC8C declared by the LGA Returning Officer.
“We therefore demand the immediate re-collation and recomputation of the actual results for the various polling units in the above highlighted local government areas in compliance with the INEC guidelines and regulations which mandate that votes from various units and wards be properly collated.”
Edo 2024: INEC resumes collation at 5pm
By Bisi Olaniyi
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that the collation of results for the Edo State governorship election will continue at 5 PM today, focusing on the remaining two local government areas (LGAs): Oredo and Ikpoba-Okha.
Barr. Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party’s candidate and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), voted at Unit 11, Ward 6 in Oredo LGA, which is also home to PDP Governor Godwin Obaseki and several key APC leaders.
The PDP’s deputy governorship candidate, Barr. Osarodion Ogie and many APC leaders are from Ikpoba-Okha LGA, located in Benin Kingdom.
Accord Party’s Enabulele expresses displeasure over Edo election
By Samuel Oamen
Dr. Bright Enabulele, the governorship candidate of the Accord Party, has expressed his displeasure over the conduct of the Saturday, September 21, election in Edo state, accusing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of not being transparent.
Enabulele’s claims center around alleged manipulation of results which he asserts undermined the democratic process.
Addressing journalists in his hometown following the polls, Enabulele highlighted his experience at his polling unit, Ward 5 St Saviour Ivbiyeneva Primary School XVI in the Ikpoba/Okha local government area.
According to Enabulele, despite voting on live television and being confident of securing hundreds of votes, the official results recorded zero votes for him.
“My election was recorded as zero despite voting. It was on live TV that I voted. How come INEC recorded zero votes for me?” he questioned, expressing disbelief over the glaring discrepancy.
Enabulele further stated: “I am a candidate, and my vote is not counted. The one result alone shows that the election results are not credible.”
He criticised the electoral process, asserting that without proper safeguards, credible outcomes cannot be achieved.
“The only way to produce a credible winner is to have an electoral system without human interference, and in my opinion, blockchain is the answer. BVAS was not used at all,” he insisted.
The candidate threatened to take legal action against INEC for what he termed “inconsistency and corruption,” demanding accountability for the alleged electoral misconduct.
While maintaining that only elections without human interference can give Nigerians the leaders they truly wanted, Enabulele insisted that results should be counted and transmitted on the spot.
“Our land will continue to suffer if we don’t have this mechanism in place. God bless Edo State and Nigeria,” he was quoted as saying.
Edo guber: Disregard Fintiri’s illegal results, APC tells Edo electorate
By Jide Orintunsin
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has branded the announcement of the results of Edo State governorship election by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors led by Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State as a blatant violation of electoral law.
The governing party also said the action by the opposition governors was an attempt to disrupt the democratic process and cause a crisis in the state.
APC national publicity secretary, Felix Morka in a statement in Abuja on Sunday faulted Fintiri describing his action as “utter desperation and mindless impunity.”
Governors elected on the platform of the PDP led by the Governor of Adamawa state, Umaru Fintiri on Sunday, September 22, 2024, in Benin addressed a press conference to declare the Edo State Governorship election, held on Saturday, September 21, 2024.
Reacting to the development in the statement, Morka noted that, “in a display of utter desperation and mindless impunity, Governor Fintiri announced what he described as “results of the Edo State Gubernatorial Election” held yesterday, Saturday, September 21, 2024.
“We condemn, in the strongest possible terms, this act of executive brigandage and contempt for the rule of law and democratic norms. Governor Fintiri has no authority to collate or announce the results of any election.
“This unprecedented illegality is calculated to cause unrest in Edo State, disrupt the peaceful conclusion of the election process, and undermine the lawful authority of INEC. We urge our law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant to maintain peace and security in the state.
“Fintiri’s bizarre action follows Governor Godwin Obaseki’s disruptive overnight invasion of INEC’s premises in Benin City until he eventually withdrew in the early hours of Sunday, following protests by APC leaders.”
APC maintained: “The power and duty to conduct, collate, and announce the result of the election is exclusively vested in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) by law.
“By seeking to usurp the statutory power of INEC, Governor Fintiri engaged in unmistakable and egregious violation of the Electoral Act, 2022 and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“It is a thing of disappointment that Governor Fintiri, a beneficiary of the electoral process, would so recklessly disregard the same process that brought him to office as Governor, in a desperate move to mislead, and achieve a partisan political advantage.
“To be clear, the purported election results announced by Fintiri are bogus, fake, and contrived by devious imagination.”
The ruling party then urged the Edo electorate and the general public to disregard Fintiri’s unlawful and unauthorized announcement of election results.
Edo polls: APC deputy guber candidate Idahosa loses LG to PDP
By Osagie Otabor
The deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Hon Dennis Idahosa, lost his Ovia Southwest local government area to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Idahosa is the lawmaker representing the Ovia federal constituency in the House of Representatives.
The APC got 10,150 votes while the PDP got 10,260 votes.
Also, Omosede Igbinedion lost in Ovia northeast local government to the PDP.
The PDP got 15,311 votes to defeat the APC which got 13,225.
It was predicted that the PDP would lose in both local government areas due to the recent defection of Barr. Igbinedion to the APC.
Despite predictions suggesting a possible victory for the APC in both areas following Barr. Igbinedion’s recent defection, the PDP emerged victorious.
BREAKING: Edo 2024: APC wins Esan West LGA as INEC begins collation
By Bisi Olaniyi
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Senator Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, as the winner of the election held on Saturday, September 21, in Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.
INEC made the announcement on Sunday, September 22, at the state collation centre for the Edo election, revealing the following results:
Esan West LGA, with 10 wards.
Total registered voters = 113,067
Total accredited voters = 25,702
APC= 12,952
PDP = 11,004
LP = 342
Total valid votes = 24,691.
Rejected votes = 693.
Total votes cast = 25,384.
Details shortly…
Edo 2024: Don’t disrupt collation of results, INEC warns political actors
…says collation will go ahead
By Tony Akowe, Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has raised the alarm over the presence of some political figures at its Edo state headquarters on Saturday night, shortly after the gubernatorial elections concluded.
Mohammed Haruna, a National Commissioner and member of the Information and Voter Education Committee, stated in a statement that the actions of some political actors were inappropriate and cautioned against any attempts to disrupt the collation process.
He said in spite of the action which created tension, the commission was going ahead with the collation of the results, threatening to invoke the relevant sections of the law against those trying to disrupt the process.
The statement reads: “Following the conclusion of voting yesterday, the Commission activated the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal and uploaded the Polling Unit results in earnest.
“The same results have also been collated from all the 192 Wards. Similarly, collation has been concluded in most of the Local Government Areas and the designated officials are already at the collation centre in Benin City or on their way. We are set to commence State-level collation.
“However, the Commission received a deeply disturbing report from our Resident Electoral Commissioner of a threat to our office in Okpoba Okha Local Government Area yesterday, resulting in a stampede in which one of our officials was injured.
“We are similarly distubed by the overnight presence and demonstrations by some political actors and their supporters at our State Head Office ahead of the commencement of final collation. These actions are uncalled for.
“Nobody should disrupt the process at any stage and no one will be allowed to benefit from lawlessness.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the collation of result will proceed as provided by the Electoral Act 2022 and our regulations and guidelines for the conduct of elections.
“There is a mechanism for redressing complaints during collation, including the power to review results declared under duress. The Commission will not hesitate to invoke such powers where necessary.
“Accredited party agents, observers and the media should be granted unimpeded access to all collation centres.
“The Commission calls on the security agencies to continue to maintain the same vigilance and professionalism that led to the peaceful conduct of the election as we conclude the process.”
UPDATED: Police walk Obaseki out of INEC’s office
By Raymond Mordi, Bisi Olaniyi and Osagie Otabor, Benin
…as APC lambasts Edo governor, says his action is abuse of office
In the early hours of September 22, 2024, Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki quietly stormed the State Collation Centre of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Aduwawa, Benin, to protest the governorship election results, even though the official results had not yet been announced.
Obaseki, a key supporter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, sneaked into the INEC premises around 2 a.m., under the cover of darkness.
He proceeded to the first floor of the building, where the office of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Edo, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, is located.
However, the REC did not attend to Obaseki, who quietly remained near the office to monitor the situation.
Unofficial reports indicated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, was leading in the polls, with results from all 18 local government areas pointing to a likely APC victory. The official collation of results was scheduled to begin at 10 a.m.
Governor Godwin Obaseki eventually left the INEC office at 4:45 a.m., amid jeers from top politicians present at the electoral commission’s headquarters.
He left without speaking, briefly glancing back as he made his way out.
The Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Frank Mba, who was overseeing security for the Edo election, was present with a heavy police presence to maintain peace and order.
While Obaseki remained inside the INEC office, APC national secretary, Senator Basiru Ajibola, also arrived at the premises, reportedly acting on credible information about the governor’s presence.
Speaking with reporters, Ajibola criticised Obaseki’s actions, accusing him of behaving unprofessionally.
Ajibola, former senator for Osun Central, was joined by APC National Vice Chairman (South-South) Chief Victor Giadom; Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Chair of the Senate Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC); Edo APC Deputy Governorship Candidate Dennis Idahosa, who represents Ovia constituency in the House of Representatives; Edo APC Chairman Jarret Tenebe; and other prominent politicians.
He emphasised that the APC was not concerned about the collation of results but insisted that INEC officials must remove Governor Obaseki from the premises.
He pointed out that the governor was not an accredited party agent and had no legitimate reason to be at the electoral commission’s office.
Ajibola described Obaseki’s presence as suspicious, raising concerns that it could undermine the democratic process in Edo.
Ajibola further argued that Governor Obaseki’s presence at INEC’s state headquarters in Benin was an abuse of office and an act of self-help, which could incite lawlessness.
He emphasised that any grievances should be addressed through judicial means, if necessary. Ajibola commended Mba for his intervention, as the Deputy Inspector-General of Police respectfully requested the governor to leave the premises.
Obaseki, however, was reportedly still holding onto the results from the September 19, 2020, governorship election, treating them as if they were the yet-to-be-collated results of the September 21, 2024 election.
Ajibola criticised Governor Obaseki’s presence at INEC’s state headquarters in Benin, calling it an abuse of office and a form of self-help that could lead to lawlessness.
He stressed that if the governor had any grievances, there were legal channels to address them, praising the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Frank Mba, for politely asking Obaseki to leave the premises.
Ajibola pointed out that Obaseki was still holding onto the results of the September 19, 2020, governorship election, claiming them to be part of the yet-to-be-collated results for the September 21, 2024 election.
The first episode of drama occurred around 11 p.m. on September 21, 2024, when PDP’s governorship candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, and his running mate, Barr. Osarodion Ogie, and PDP Chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, arrived at INEC’s Edo state headquarters, where the State Collation Centre is located.
However, armed security operatives prevented them from approaching the main gate, let alone entering the premises. The security officers deemed their presence unnecessary and described it as an act of desperation, especially since the PDP had a state collation agent who could have raised any protests on their behalf.
The Edo State Chairman of the APC, serving as the party’s collation agent, appeared relaxed and smiling as he entered the state collation centre.
For about an hour, he engaged in discussions with friends and political associates from various parties.
Meanwhile, security operatives refused to grant access to the PDP’s governorship candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo; his running mate, Barr. Osarodion Ogie; and PDP Chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, barring them from entering INEC’s state headquarters in Benin.
At around 1:50 a.m. on Sunday, Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, Director-General of the Asue/Ogie Campaign Management Council of the PDP, and a former Majority Leader of the Edo House of Assembly, led a protest at the main gate of INEC’s headquarters, joined by other PDP members.
They expressed concerns that the governorship election was being manipulated in favour of APC candidate Senator Monday Okpebholo. Despite their protests, security operatives also denied them access. Iduoriyekemwen claimed that the PDP was on the verge of victory but accused some APC leaders of attempting to tamper with the final results, undermining the will of the Edo electorate.
The director-general of the PDP campaign also accused the APC leader in Edo, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, of attempting to manipulate the election.
Oshiomhole, a former National Chairman of the APC and ex-governor of Edo State (2008-2016), currently represents Edo North Senatorial District.
The director-general further alleged that Comrade Philip Shaibu, the reinstated Edo Deputy Governor and former House of Representatives member, was involved in the misconduct.
Both Oshiomhole and Shaibu were accused of thumbprinting ballot papers to reduce the gap by which the APC was leading.
JUST IN: Obaseki forced out of INEC office
By Alao Abiodun
Edo governor, Godwin Obaseki, has been forced out of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) premises in Benin.
The INEC head office in Benin, Edo capital, is the main collation centre for the ongoing governorship election.
The deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dennis Idahosa led members of the party to demand the exit of Obaseki from the premises of the Commission.
Idahosa, who was spotted shouting outside the gate at about 3.30 am, queried why Governor Obaseki should be at the Commission’s office where the collation of the final results of the election would be done.
It took the timely intervention of the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police in charge of the election, Frank Mba, who came into the premises with his team to restore normalcy, demanding Obaseki’s exit.
Obaseki left the INEC office around 4:45 am.
APC national secretary, Surajudeen Basiru, addressed journalists emphasising that the governor had no reason to be on the INEC premises.
“He is not a candidate. He has no reason to be here”, Basiru emphasised, adding that the governor’s action amounted to an abuse of office.
RESULTS
IMIAGBESE P/S IMIAGBESE III, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UTAYOKHE PRY SCH, IMIOSUMU/IMOGIA II, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
PRIMARY HEALTH CENTRE, IMIOGA, OKPELLA, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
IMIAGBESE P/S IMIAGBESE IV, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
IKPOMAZA GRAMMAR SCHOOL, OKPELLA, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UDIOKE VILLAGE SQ., Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
AFEGBUA P/S AWUYEMI IV, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
IKPOMAZA GRAMMAR SCH II, OKPELLA, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
COURT HALL,IMIAKHANA/IMIANOKO, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
AFEGBUA PRY. SCHOOL, IMIETEMEGIE/ITEKUME/IMIADATSE, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
AFEGBUA P/S AWUYEMI III, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UTAYOKHE PRY. SCHOOL, IMIOSUMU/IMOGIA, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
TOWN HALL IMIANOKO, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
AFEGBUA PRY. SCHOOL, IMIETEMEGHE/ITEKUME/IMIADATSE II, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
AFEGBUA PRY. SCHOOL, AWUYEMI – II, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
AFEGBUA PRY. SCHOOL, AWUYEMI – I, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
PUBLIC SQUARE, IMIADATSE-ORERE, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
IMIAGBESE PRY. SCHOOL IMIAGBESE I, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
IMIAGBESE PRY. SCHOOL IMIAGBESE II, Ward: OKPELLA I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
KALABA COMMUNITY CENTER, KALABAR, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
ERAMHE P/S IMIOKO/UTEGIE II, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
AFOKPELLA SEC/SCH II ,OGEDE, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
ERAMHE PRY SCHOOL, IMIOKO/UTEGIE, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
RHINOCEM, FACTORY CAMP, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
ERAMHE P/S. IMIOKO UTEGIE III, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EWO MARKET OFOMEGBE, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
LGA MATERNITY IMIOMIME /IDANE/ OKE IV PRY HEALTH CENTER, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
LOCAL GOVT. MATERNITY, IMIOMIME/IDANE/OKE II, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
ERAMHE PRY. SCHOOL, KALABAR, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
PRIMARY HEALTH CENTER OGIRIGA, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
LGA MATERNITY IMIOMIME/IDANE/OKE III, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
LOCAL GOVT. MATERNITY, IMIOMIME/IDANE/OKE I, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
OGODOR PRY. SCHOOL, OGIRIGA, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
ERAMHE PRY. SCHOOL, IMIOMOKA, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
AFOKPELLA SEC/SCH I OGEDE, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
ERAMHE PRY. SCHOOL, MIETEKE/YELUWA, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
OGODOR P/S II OGIRIGA RD, Ward: OKPELLA III, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EKWOTSOR – TOWN HALL, EKWOTSOR, Ward: WEPPA, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
OSHOLO PRIMARY SCHOOL OSHOLO, Ward: WEPPA, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
ARI, PRIMARY SCHOOL, IVIARI, mnWard: WEPPA, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EKWOTSOR- PRIMARY HEALTH CARE, Ward: WEPPA, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
OVUEGBE PRY. SCHOOL, AGIERE II, Ward: WEPPA, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
IVIARI PRI HEALTH CARE, Ward: WEPPA, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
ADOSI PRY. SCHOOL, EKWOTSOR, Ward: WEPPA, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
OKUGBE PRY. SCHOOL AVIODO, Ward: WEPPA, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EGORI PRY. SCHOOL EGORI WATERSIDE, Ward: WANNO I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EGORI-UGIE, EGORI-UGIE, Ward: WANNO I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EBUA P/S II IVIEBUA, Ward: WANNO I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
OKPODI PRIMARY SCH IVIANOKPODI II, Ward: WANNO I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
OKPODI PRY. SCHOOL , IVIANOKPODI, Ward: WANNO I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UKHUA PRIMARY SCHOOL, IVIUKHUA I, Ward: WANNO I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UKHUA ANNEX PRY. SCHOOL , UKHO, Ward: WANNO I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UKHUA PRIMARY SCHOOL, IVIUKHUA II, Ward: WANNO I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EGBEPUI PRY. SCHOOL, IVIEGBEPUI, Ward: WANNO I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EGBEPUI PRIMARY SCH IVIEGBEPUI II, Ward: WANNO I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EBUA PRY. SCHOOL, IVIEBUA, Ward: WANNO I, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UGBEDOGUN PRY. SCHOOL, OGUTE, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UGBEDOGUN PRY. SCHOOL, OGUTE, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EKURI P/S IGHIATSE/IMIHIRHOKHO/IMANABA III, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UGBEDOGUN P/S UDIEGWA II, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EKURI P/S IV, IGHATSE /IMHIRHOKHO /IMANABA, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UGBEDOGUN P/S OGUTE II, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
EKURI PRY. SCHOOL, IGHIATSE/IMHIRHOKHO/IMANABA II, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UGBEDOGUN P/S OKOKPETU II, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
OFUOKHA P/S II ITUROGBE, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UDIOGIEGIE P/S IMIENEGWE II, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
ILEWURI PUBLIC SQUARE, ILEWURI, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
OFUOKHA P/S OKHU/OFUOKHA II, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UGBEDOGUN PRY. SCHOOL, UDIEGWA, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
OFUOKHA PRY. SCHOOL, OKHU/OFUOKHA, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UGBEDOGUN PRY. SCHOOL, OKOKPETU, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
UDIOGIEGIE PRY. SCHOOL, IMIENEGWE, Ward: OKPELLA II, Lga: ETSAKO EAST
OPEN SPACE BY OPENER STREET JUCTION UDO, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY 4 JUNCTION AT OGBE CENTRAL UDO, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UDO TOWNHALL, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY FORESTRY ROAD JUNCTION BY UDO PARK, UDO, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UNIVERSITY OF BENIN TEACHING HOSPITAL UDO, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE -UDO NEW MARKET, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY INNE QUARTERS AND ARAGUN JUNCTION, UDO, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UDO, EZOTI P/SCHOOL I, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UDO, UDO GRAMMAR SCHOOL, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UDO, UDO MATERNITY I, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UDO , EZOTI P/SCHOOL III, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUEZE, IGUEZE VILLAGE, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BESIDE MOJO COUNTRY HOME, UDO, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UDO, EZOTI P/SCHOOL II, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE AT&P MARKET, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
URHEZEN, OGBOE P/SCHOOL, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UDO, UDO MATERNITY II, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUAFOLE, OVONRAMWEN P/SCHOOL, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
MAIROGHIONBA PRY SCH. I, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOWAN, IGUOWAN VILLAGE, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IKOKA-ETETE, EGHOSA P/SCHOOL, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OKOMU STAFF SCHOOL, OKOMU, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OKOMU, OKOMU P/SCHOOL, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UDO, UDO P/SCHOOL (IGBESAMWAN) II, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UDO, COURT HALL, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UDO, UDO P/SCHOOL (IGBESAMWAN) I, Ward: UDO, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
INEC uploads 86.19 percent of Edo Gov results on IREV
By Adedamola Ogunbewon
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released 86.19 per cent of the results from the Edo gubernatorial election on its Result Viewing Portal (iRev)
A visit to the iRev website by The Nation correspondent on Saturday revealed that 3,895 results out of 4,519 polling units where elections were conducted in the State have been uploaded.
OPEN SPACE LOCAL GOVERNMENT EDUCATION AUTHORITY IGUOBAZUWA, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY BOREHOLE AT IGUOBAZUWA NEW MARKET, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOBAZUWA TOWNHALL, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOBAZUWA, OZOLUA P/SCHOOL IV, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE FARM ROAD JUNCTION IGUOGUN, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY PUBLIC TAP, IGUOGUN, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
AIFESOBA, AIFESOBA VILLAGE, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY T_JUNCTION OLOGBOSERE QUATERS IGUOBAZUWA, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOBAZUWA, OZOLUA P/SCHOOL I, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOBAZUWA, OZOLUA P/SCHOOL III, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE, IGUOBAZUWA PUBLIC FIELD, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OKUNZUWA, OKUNZUWA VILLAGE, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOGUN, OBE P/SCHOOL, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOGUN HEALTH POST, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
UBA PRIMARY SCHOOL IGUATAKPA III IJESHA VILLAGE, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OSA PRIMARY SCHOOL IGUATAKPA II OGUNWALE, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUATAKPA II , YORUBA CAMP, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY THE JUNCTION OPP NEW APOSTOLIC CHURCH IGUOGUN, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA EAST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY 3RD JUCTION ODIONWERE STREET OKOKPON, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BESIDE THE TRANSFORMER IGUOBAZUWA JUCTION, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY ANGLICAN ROAD JUNCTION IGUOBAZUWA, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY RURAL WATER PROJECT, OKOKPON, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOBAZUWA SKILL ACQUISITION CENTRE, BY OLD MARKET, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY BENJOUR STREET JUCTION OBARETIN, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOBAZUWA, IGUOBAZUWA G/S, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE IN FRONT OF BLESSED OSAGIE GROUP OF SCHOOL OBAZUMAMWEHI, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY LOCAL HOUSE IGUOBAZUWA, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OPEN SPACE BY POLICE BARRACKS IGUOBAZUWA, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOBAZUWA, MIN. OF EDUCATION III, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOBAZUWA, MIN. OF EDUCATION I, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOBAZUWA HEALTH CENTRE, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
IGUOBAZUWA, MIN. OF EDUCATION II, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WES
OPEN SPACE BY GENERAL HOSPITAL IGUOBAZUWA, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OBARETIN, OKPON P/SCHOOL, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
OKORO II, OKORO P/SCHOOL, Ward: IGUOBAZUWA WEST, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
AIGUOBASIMWINOTOR (AIGUOBASIMWINOTOR VILLAGE), Ward: NIKOROGHA, Lga: OVIA SOUTH WEST
Edo Decides: LP’s Akpata loses polling unit to Ighodalo
By Raymond Mordi, Benin
The governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP) Olumide Akpata lost his polling unit to his People’s Democratic Party (PDP) counterpart, Asue Ighodalo.
According to results declared at his Polling Unit 11, Ward 6, Oredo Local Government Area, Ighodalo polled 41 votes while Akpata trailed with 32 votes.
Senator Monday Okpehbolo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) came third with at the unit with 19 votes.
After casting his ballot earlier, Ighodalo boasted that he would win the governorship election by a landslide.
He said: “We will win this election by landslide and move our state forward by God’s grace. If there is anybody at home, please come out and cast your vote.
“We are not comfortable with the little shenanigans that is going on.This is a single state election and INEC has all the time to prepare, so there was no need for the delay.
“There are rumours that they are trying to undermine the election process. Many of them have been caught with ballot papers, PVC’s.
“The worst is that they go round trying to buy votes. They buy votes for N15,000 to N20,000. They are trying everything to subvert the process.”
He noted that the military has taken charge and shown they can protect the people.
Edo Decides: I will win with a landslide, Ighodalo boasts
By Bisi Olaniyi, Ewohimi
The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Dr. Asue Ighodalo has boasted he will win with a landslide.
He spoke with reporters at his polling Unit 3, Ward One, Idinrio Vocational Centre, Okaegben-Ewohimi in Esan Southeast Local Government Area.
He hailed the military for providing adequate security for the poll.
Ighodalo, who was accompanied by his wife, Ifeyinwa, and younger brother, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, of Trinity House, Lagos, also stated from the reports of PDP’s leaders, members and coordinators across Edo, the poll was peaceful and going on smoothly, with massive turn-out.
Edo Decides: INEC extends voting in polling units
By Tony Akowe, Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed satisfaction with the conduct the ongoing governorship election in Edo state.
The commission however extended accreditation and voting beyond 2.00pm ib areas where voting started late as a result of late arrival of materials
National Commissioner and Member of the
Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna said in a statement that the extension was in line with the guidelines for the conduct of the election and to ensure that no voter is disenfranchised.
The statement reads: “The Commission continues to monitor the ongoing governorship election in Edo State from our situation room at the National Headquarters in Abuja.
“Our monitoring indicates early commencement of polls in many Polling Units, but there are also reports of late commencement in some locations.
“To ensure that no voter is disenfranchised, the Commission wishes to reiterate that, in line with our Regulations and Guidelines, voting will be extended wherever it commenced late and will continue until the last voter on the queue who arrived at the Polling Unit by 2.30pm has voted.
“Accordingly, we have drawn the attention of our office in Edo State to ensure that, where necessary, there is adequate power supply from our back-up electric generators in the affected Polling Units or Ward Collation Centres.”
Edo decides: Obaseki votes, expresses satisfaction
By Samuel Oamen
Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki has cast his vote in the ongoing governorship election in the state.
Obaseki cast his vote at polling unit 19, Ward 4, Oredo, located inside Emokpae Primary School, Benin City.
Obaseki expressed satisfaction with the voting process and expressed hope that the collation of results would be conducted fairly and without issues.
Voting commences in Shaibu polling unit
By Osagie Otabor
Voting commenced about 12:30 at the Unit five Ward 11 in Estako West Local Government Area of Edo State because of the failure of BVAS.
Reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State Hon Philip Shaibu voted after the BVAS began working.
Voters at the polling unit waited for over four hours after accreditation.
A canopy was provided where the voters could wait.
Many of the voters cried foul play for the failure of BVAS at the polling unit where Shiabu cast his vote.
Shaibu, who spoke before the BVAS was rectified, said the polling unit has the highest number of voters.
“We have to calm them down. We have to go and get a canopy where the people can wait.
“Over 2000 voters will be disenfranchised if the BVAS did jot work. I don’t want to give it a name yet. Maybe it is a technology failure.They have assured us that when they fix it they will extend the voting time. The information from other areas of Edo North is good.
“We have made up our mind not to have an evil Governor, a governor that does not have empathy.”
The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Dr. Asue Ighodalo has called on security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level-playing field and halt the alleged indiscriminate arrest of his supporters for the results of the crucial poll to be acceptable.
Ighodalo, who was accompanied by his wife, Ifeyinwa, and younger brother, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, spoke with reporters, amid downpour, at his Unit 3, Ward One, Idinrio Vocational Centre, Okaegben-Ewohimi in Esan Southeast Local Government Area.
He complained of the late arrival of ad-hoc staff of INEC and electoral materials, which led to delay in the commencement of the simultaneous accreditation and voting from 11:02 a.m. today.
The standard bearer of PDP in Edo, who is still waiting to vote, called on INEC to extend accreditation and voting by three hours across the State based on reports he got from his coordinators.
A physically challenged woman at Idia College, Oredo, Benin
Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele
JUST IN: Okpebholo, Akpata vote as Edo Decides
By Samuel Oamen
The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has voted in his PU003, Uwessan 1, Esan Central Local Government Area.
The senator, who represents Edo Central Zone, said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would not get a single vote at his polling unit as the party is not popular in his area.
“What I am seeing here is testimony that INEC is getting it right,” he said.
“PDP or whatever will not get one vote here because this is my home and my people love me. I have nothing to fear. What they are saying about security is hyping. No knock out or a stick of matches. It is just to scare people away from voting.”
Labour Party candidate, Olumide Akpata, also voted at polling unit 11 ward in Oredo Local Government Area.
He expressed satisfaction with the voting process, but hoped that it would be the same throughout the state.
Oshiomhole votes, says achievements endeared him to electorates
By Osagie Otabor 11: 45 am
A former Edo Governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has voted at his Ward 10 Unit 01 Estako West Local Government Area.
Senator Oshiomhole voted after waiting in the queue for over one hour.
His nonagenarian mother, Aisha Oshiomhole, voted at the same polling unit.
Speaking to journalists after he voted, the former Edo Governor said his projects endeared the people to him.
He denied the All Progressives Congress (APC) stock-pilled money to buy votes adding that he has not received any report of violence from anywhere across the state.
“It is laughable when I heard this kind of allegation. Have you seen anywhere where they are sharing money? People turned out in large numbers to vote for us because they want good government. During our campaign people came out to see me not because I wanted to give them something but because of what I have done for them while I was in the office as the governor.
” All structures that I have put in place 12, 13 years ago are still there but the ones put up by the present administration, in one year , they are washed off. So our people have seen the difference. Some people do tell me that since I left the government, they haven’t seen the real presence of government in their communities.
“The voters know what they want. I am happy the media are here showing live pictures from a rural village like mine. Other people will watch it and see the election is peaceful. Rural people deserve a greater share of the federal budget than state budget. You can see that the people are peaceful.”
By Tony Akowe 11: 12 am
PDP’s Ighodalo arrives polling unit
PDP’s governorship candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, at his polling Unit 3, Ward One, Okaegben-Ewohimi in Esan Southeast LGA, Edo Central Senatorial District in company with his wife, Ifeyinwa, and younger brother, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo.
By Bisi Olaniyi 10:38 a.m
EFCC storms Oshiomhole polling unit
By Osagie Otabor 10: 28 am
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have stormed the Iyhamo primary school where former Governor Adams Oshiomhole is waiting on the queue to cast his vote.
The operatives were believed to be on the search for vote buyers.
Edo Decides: Observers satisified with early movement of materials
By Tony Akowe 10: 24 am
Some observers monitoring the ongoing governorship election in Edo State have expressed satisfaction with the early movement of election materials across the state.
Executive Director, Partners for Electoral Reforms and Board member, YIAGA Africa, Ezenwa Nwagu commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the smooth and early distribution of sensitive and non-sensitive materials across polling units nationwide.
Speaking to reporters at ward 12, Agbado primary school, in Benin city, Nwangu said the process has so far been very commendable and a far cry from previous situations where materials left for polling units late resulting in late commencement of polls.
He also commended the security put in place to ensure the safety of both the materials, electoral staff and the voters.
He said: “We have monitored the transportation of the materials from the RACs to polling units, and we are pleased with the organized and timeliness of the operation so far”.
Chairman of Connected Development (CODE) Hamza Lawal said INEC has adhered to its promise of early deployment of electron materials, which is a critical factor in ensuring a free, fair, and credible election.
“The early movement of materials to polling units is particularly commendable, as it shows the Commission’s commitment to a credible process and we expect that this is replicated across the board,” Lawal said.
Why I left my sick bed to vote, by septuagenarian
From Osagie Otabor 10:24 am
A septuagenarian, Fatima Jimoh, has said that she left her sick bed to vote in the Edo governorship election because of her love for former Governor Adams Oshiomhole.
Jimoh, who was aided by her daughter, said she wanted to make Oshiomhole happy be ensuirng his party won the polls.
After voting at Unit three, Ward 10, Iyhamo Primary School, Jimoh said,
“I am not feeling well. I like Oshiomhole. I come out of illness to vote.”
Voting commences in Emokpae Model Primary School
By Raymond Mordi and Isaac Jimoh Ayodele 09.50 am
This is Emokpae Model Primary School, Mission Road, Benin City, where Godwin Obaseki is expected to cast his ballot.
Voting has commenced in the 10 polling units within the premises. The governor is yet to show up to vote.
Voting commences at Ogute
By Osagie Otabor 9:41 am
Voting has commenced at polling units in Ward six Ogute community in Estako East local government area.
There were large turn out of voters at the different polling units.
Those who spoke said they were happy at the early arrival of INEC officials.
Voting about to commence at the four polling units within Baptist High School, Ward 5 (units 21,22 and 23), Oredo Local Govt
By Raymond Mordi 09.30 am
Accreditation ongoing in ward 5 unity 21, Baptist High School, Oredo, Benin
Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele 09:28 am
Ever busy TV road in Benin deserted
Photo: Isaac Jimoh 09: 23 am
Setting up at Ward 1 Unit 35 at Ogbe, Benin
Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele
Foreign Observer at Ward 1 Unit 35 Ogbe, Benin
Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele 09:14 am
One Mr Ugbebor Pedro Ken trying to locate his polling unit at Ogbe quarters, Benin
Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele 09:11 am
Voting yet to begin in parts of Oredo Local Govt
By Raymond Mordi09: 05 am
Today’s off-cycle electoral contest to determine who will occupy Dennis Osadebe House, the seat of power in Edo State when the tenure of Governor Godwin Obaseki lapses by November 12 this year is taking off on a bad note in Benin City, with the delay in deploying ad-hoc officials and materials to the various polling units.
For instance, as of 09.00am, ad-hoc officials have just arrived Unit 35, Ward 1, Oredo Local Government. They are now pasting the names of registered voters on the wall.
Benin City is the hub of Edo South Senatorial District. With its urban density, Edo South is a critical battleground in today’s election.
Voters storm polling units in Ukpellla
By Osagie Otabor 08:40 am
Voters have stormed polling unit in Ukpella, headquarters of Estako East local government area.
At Unit 12 and Unit 4 Ward Eight, voters were seen on the queue waiting for INEC officials to commence accreditation and voting.
High Chief Kashim Otaru, who was waiting in Ward 13 said he arrived at the polling unit at about 8:20am.
“I came early but INEC said they were programme to start at 8:30am. I expect a good turn out at the poll. We used to record massive votes in this polling unit.
“We are here to vote for the party of our choice.”
INEC ad-hoc officials setting up at Ogbe Primary School, Ogbe, Oredo Local Government, Benin City
By Raymond Mordi ans Isaac Jimoh Ayodele 08:15am
Voter waiting accreditation at Ogbe primary School, Stadium, Oredo L/G
Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele 8:02am
INEC begins distribution of Electoral materials for 2024 Governorship election in Benin, Edo State
Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele
Police in show of force in preparation for 2024 Governorship Election
Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele
Edo election: Don’t wear campaign attire to polling units, INEC warns parties, supporters
By Tony Akowe
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a warning to political parties, their candidates, and supporters for the upcoming governorship elections in Edo State. They are prohibited from wearing campaign attire or bringing campaign materials to polling units on Election Day.
The Commission reminded all parties and candidates that official campaigning ends at midnight on Thursday, September 19, in line with the Electoral Act 2023.
Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee stated that any rallies or processions after the campaign period concludes are illegal.
The statement reads: “The Commission wishes to remind political parties that in line with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, and item 12 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2024 Edo State Governorship election, all campaigns by political parties end at midnight today, Thursday 19th September 2024.
“It is therefore illegal for any political party in Edo State to engage in rallies, processions, or media campaigns from midnight today. These prohibitions, including sanctions, are provided for in Section 96 of the Electoral Act 2022.
“Similarly, on Election Day, Saturday 21st September 2024, parties, candidates, and their supporters should not appear at the polling units in their campaign attires or carry any campaign materials with them.
“We urge parties, candidates, and their supporters to take note of the provisions of the law for compliance.”
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has washed off its hands from the myriad of crises rocking the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The governing party said the PDP is the sole author of the intractable crisis that bedevils it.
APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka in a statement in Abuja yesterday berated the Chairman of PDP Governors’ Forum and Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed for alleging that the crisis in the opposition party was a creation of the APC.
The Bauchi State governor while hosting the Board of Trustees of PDP in Government House, Bauchi, on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, reportedly alleged that the crisis in the PDP was a creation of the APC.
But in a reaction, the APC stated that “the PDP has been and remains a cesspool of sleaze, crisis and dysfunction. And that has got nothing to do with APC. Crisis is endemic to the PDP and dysfunction is deeply engraved in its institutional DNA.
“The PDP is the sole author of the intractable crisis that bedevils it. A party so grossly inept and incapable of governing its own internal affairs cannot possibly be trusted with the important task of governing Africa’s most populous country.”
Faulting the PDP chieftain, APC spokesman noted that “Governor Mohammed is either a poor student of his party’s history or he is choosing, mischievously, to turn that history on its head.
“If not crisis, what else do we call the track record of leadership imbroglio some of which predates the formation of APC? How else do we describe the chaotic rise and fall of the Party’s National Chairmen in the likes of, Barnabas Gemade, Audu Ogbeh, Vincent Ogbulafor, Okwesilieze Nwodo, Bamanga Tukur, Ali Modu Sherrif, Ahmed Makarfi, Uche Secondus and Iyorcha Ayu?
“The latest episode of its crisis was, among other potent factors, a result of the PDP’s failure to adhere to the dictates of its constitution on zoning and power sharing for presidential candidate and national chairmanship positions between the North and South zones. In flagrant disregard of its constitution, the party decided to concentrate both positions in one zone, and digging itself into deeper crisis.”
Dismissing Mohammed’s allegation, Morka maintained that the ruling party is busy doing the job entrusted to it by the Nigerian electorate, insisting that APC “does not have a moment to spare in involvement in PDP’s messy historic internal commotion. The PDP needs no help in that regard. They are masters-class agents of political bedlam.
“Rather than point fingers at our great Party for its endless woes, Governor Mohammed and his partners in crisis should eat the humble pie, and search within for solutions or, better still, save us all the trouble and wind down altogether.”
A group of National Working Committee (NWC) members met with Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed on Tuesday and got a message.
Another group led by Acting National Chairman Illiya Damagum met yesterday with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. They got another message.
While the Bauchi State Governor said the party would send Damagum packing because his stay had become untenable, Makinde said in Ibadan that he was giving 100 per cent support to the acting national chairman.
Mohammed hosted members of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) yesterday at the time that Damagum was in Ibadan.
Reading the communique of his meeting with a faction of the NWC, he said: “My brother from the Northeast is currently serving as Acting National Chairman, which is constitutionally inappropriate.
“According to our party’s constitution, any leadership vacancy should be filled by someone from the region where it originated.
“Northcentral has been eager for this opportunity, and we’ve discussed this issue.
“We are committed to working with the NWC and the party to ensure that the Northcentral is given the chance to assume this responsibility.”
He said such an arrangement was worked out after the resignation of Alh. Bamanga Tukur from the Northeast, when former Governor of Bauchi State, Ahmadu Adamu Mu’azu, became the PDP National Chairman.
The NWC team that met with Mohammed was led by the National Legal Adviser, Kamaluddeen Adeyemi.
With him were National Publicity Secretary Debo Olagunagba and National Vice Chairman (Northeast) Emmanuel Bovao.
Others were National Treasurer Ahmed Yayari, National Women Leader Amina Bryhm and National Financial Secretary W. A Daniel.
There were also DG-PDP Governors Forum Agbo Emmanuel and Consultant Agu Emmanuel.
But, Makinde pledged full support for Damagum, who was in Ibadan for the turning of the sod for the rehabilitation of the Ladoke Akintola airport.
The Oyo governor said: “I am glad also that our Acting National Chairman and members of his NWC are here.
“I was reading yesterday (Tuesday) that there was another meeting in Bauchi by some NWC members.
“Let me say clearly that I have been discussing with my brother and let me tell you that we are 100 per cent in support of Damagum-led NWC.
“Whatever decision you take, we will support you to reposition our party.
“Let me also say this: I don’t think this is the right time…Even if we have issues within ourselves, we have an important election on Saturday.
“So, we should all just rally around and deliver our candidate.”
Dispelling speculations that he is not in support of Edo PDP candidate Asue Ighodalo, Makinde said: “I was away. I already fixed the meetings in Finland and Sweden when they fixed the Edo governorship grand finale rally. I couldn’t come.
“I thought I would manage to get to Nigeria that Saturday and tongues have been wagging that I wasn’t at the rally.
“Let me declare loud and clear that Seyi Makinde is 100 per cent with our candidate Asue Ighodalo in Edo State and it is the Edo people’s decision.
“If the people of Edo want to know the difference between delicious and nutritious, you should vote for Asue Ighodalo and deliver him as your next governor. He will give you nutrition.”
‘APC planting moles in Rivers PDP’
Mohammed accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of deliberately planting moles within the PDP in Rivers State.
The governor alleged that the ruling party’s strategy is to fuel internal divisions for political gains.
Mohammed made the accusations when the PDP BoT visited him.
Mohammed expressed concern over the ongoing power struggle within Rivers PDP between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under the APC-led government.
He said: “We have to close ranks but it is something that is baffling some of us.
“No challenge is not insurmountable. It will be surmounted by the grace of God and we will find a solution to that and that is why there is a problem.
“It is only PDP with the experience of governance that is being challenged. And you will notice that this is a creation of the other side (the APC).
“They want us to be in disarray; the crisis is the creation of the APC. They always want to have moles within us; they want to know what is happening within us.”
Mohammed said efforts were on to unify the party, adding: “We cannot compromise the peace and unity of our great party.”
BoT Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara commended Mohammed for his initiatives in resolving the crisis, expressing the BoT’s willingness to support his efforts.
Wabara said the BoT plans to engage the two factions in Rivers in separate meetings to address the issues.
Wabara further expressed disappointment with the ongoing challenges in the PDP, particularly the NWC’s actions and the leadership crisis in Rivers.
“We are not happy with what is happening in the party, and I think Nigerians too are not happy with what is happening in the PDP, particularly in Rivers,” he said.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) suffered a fatal blow in Owan as a three-time member and former Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Omon Ezomon, dumped the party.
Ezomon, represented Owan West Constituency between 1999 and 2007, blamed internal crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for his decision.
Ezomon’s action is expected to weaken the party’s already sliding grip in the area where the Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt Hon Blessing Agbebaku claims to hold sway.
He announced his departure from the PDP in a bombshell letter dated 16th September 2024 as addressed to the PDP Chairman of Ward 5, Avbiosi, Iuleha, Owan West LGA.
Ezomon’s resignation which takes immediate effect, comes after what he describes as “considerable reflection” and consultations over the alienation he has faced from the decision-making process at the ward, local government, and state levels of the party.
According to the former lawmaker, the leadership of the party has deliberately sidelined him, ignoring his immense contributions to the growth and development of the party.
Ezomon lamented the actions of “neophytes” who, despite his status as a foundation member and two-term elected representative, now control the PDP at the local level. He expressed pain over the disrespect shown to his political legacy, which includes his rise to the position of Deputy Speaker during his tenure.
Raising concerns about the ongoing internal strife plaguing the party, he highlighted the unresolved conflicts and infighting that have weakened the PDP as it heads into the Saturday’s gubernatorial elections.
He criticized the party leadership’s inability to foster unity and cohesion, a failure he says could have dire consequences for the party’s future electoral prospects.
“I am deeply saddened by the glaring disunity and lack of leadership that have foisted division within the ranks of the party. For my own peace of mind and mental health, I have made the painful decision to leave,” Ezomon stated in the letter.
Ezomon, however, was diplomatic in his parting words, expressing gratitude for the opportunities the PDP had provided him and wishing the leadership of Ward 5 well in their future endeavors.
The defection has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Edo State, even as analysts speculate on what Ezomon’s next move might be, with some hinting at a possible realignment with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ahead of November 16 governorship election in Ondo State, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Dr Akinsola Jimoh, has led about 600 of his supporters to pitch tent with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Jimoh, PDP House of Assembly candidate during the 2023 general election for Okitipupa Constituency 1, formally joined the APC at his Igbotako Ward 2 at an event held at St Pius Catholic field on Sunday.
The event was attended by prominent leaders and members of the APC in the state, including the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Pastor Segun Aiyerin; his counterpart in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro; House of Assembly member representing Okitipupa Constituency 1, Chris Ayebusiwa; APC chairman in Okitipupa Local Government, Igbekele Akinriwa and Acting Chairman of Ikale North Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Abiodun Owonola, among others.
Receiving the defectors, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa expressed delight about Jimoh’s decision to join APC with his supporters.
Represented by the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, the governor expressed optimism in Jimoh’s ability to add greater value to the party in the state as a grassroots politician, assuring him and his supporters of recognition and support in the APC.
He advised the people to troop out en masse on November 16 to vote for the APC and the governor, noting that the election would be an affirmation of the Aiyedatiwa’s works across all sectors in the state.
Jimoh said he decided to join the APC after due consultation with his associates and admirers in and around the country, noting that he was determined to join the ruling party for the development of the state.
The Deputy Director-General Diaspora for Asue/Ogie Governorship Campaign Organisation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Raymond Osaremen, has stated that intimidation of voters is unacceptable.
He noted that intimidation of voters, if left unaddressed, would undermine the foundation of democracy and the trust the people placed in Nigeria’s electoral system.
Osaremen spoke on Monday at a news conference in Benin.
He said: “Let us be unequivocal in our position: any form of voters’ intimidation, harassment, or coercion by law enforcement agencies, or any individual or group is entirely unacceptable. The roles of the police and other security agencies are to protect citizens and maintain peace, and not to create fear or manipulate the voting process in any guise.
“We call on the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and other security agencies to discharge their duties with the highest level of professionalism, impartiality, and respect for the rule of law. The police must refrain from any action that can be perceived as intimidation or interference in the democratic rights of the people.
“All eligible voters have the right to freely cast their votes, without fear of harassment or reprisal, and this right must be upheld without compromise.
“We urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to continue its commitment to ensuring a fair, transparent, and credible election process. We believe that a strong and independent INEC is essential to the success of our democracy. The people of Edo State — and indeed all Nigerians — deserve an electoral process that is free from manipulation, corruption, and undue influence.
“We also call on INEC to ensure that its officers at every level are properly trained and equipped to manage the election in a transparent manner. Any report of irregularities or malpractice must be swiftly investigated, and any individual found to be compromising the electoral process should be held accountable.”
The Ondo State governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the forthcoming election, Agboola Ajayi, has called for unity among all stakeholders in the party to ensure victory in this weekend’s governorship election in Edo State and in the November 16 poll in Ondo State.
Ajayi said the crowd that attended the PDP grand rally in Benin City was an indication that the party has resolved to take up the challenge of restoring the country’s glory.
The former Ondo deputy governor who spoke while addressing PDP women leaders across the 18 local government areas said the party has antecedents of being a capable manager of people, economy, and country.
He said: “The mood in the country today is that the PDP is the only messiah the people can look up to. With the show of camaraderie displayed in Benin City, it is obvious that the party is ready to take up the challenge to rescue Nigeria from her current handlers. I can’t remember the last time the party supported a cause like this Edo election with its full strength as we have seen.”
Ajayi urged Edo electorates to queue behind Asue Ighodalo and remained resolute that the party would retain the state. He also promised to turn around the fortune of women by empowering them financially when elected as governor in the off-circle election.
He said the United Nations (UN) affirmation on gender equality would be adhered to from February 24 when he is sworn in as governor. The women begged PDP leaders to provide enough security and other wherewithal that would further embolden them on the day of the election.
He said: “We are ready this time around to work for the party, you have shown us with this meeting that we are recognized in the party and that when the PDP government comes on board, we will have our pride of place in government appointments, so we are ready to go out there and work for the party “ the Senatorial woman leader from Ondo North emphasis.”
The Presidency has vehemently denied allegations by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) that it has perfected plans to interfere in next Saturday’s election in Edo State by using state apparatus to skew the exercise in favour of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement by the Edo State PDP chairman, Dr Anthony Aziegbemi, the party claimed that it has uncovered a plot by the Presidency to use the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to aid the victory of the APC and its candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, both financially and through the use of state apparatus.
Aziegbemi alleged that the Presidency tasked the NSA to work with the Department of State Service (DSS) and other security chiefs to execute the plan.
However, reacting to the allegations, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, described the claim as baseless and emphasised President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to upholding democracy and the democratic process.
Ajayi said the Presidency will not engage in any illegal activities that compromise the integrity of elections, citing President Tinubu’s track record as a steadfast democrat.
The presidential aide accused the PDP of preparing excuses for its impending defeat in the election, noting that the party’s leaders have abandoned it like a sinking ship.
Ajayi reassured that institutions like the DSS and NSA prioritize national security and preserving democracy, rather than subverting the electoral process.
The PDP’s allegations were dismissed as a desperate attempt to deflect attention from its lack of preparation and impending defeat.
Ajayi said: “It is a silly claim from Edo State PDP and the PDP as a whole. There is no truth in such a claim. The Presidency and President Tinubu will not undermine democracy and the democratic process. President Tinubu is an avowed democrat.
“His party has won elections states and has lost elections, too. He won’t lend his presidency to any illegality or anything that will compromise the integrity of our elections. The ship of the PDP in Edo State is sinking just like it sank at the national level.
“The PDP is just preparing ground and perfect alibi for the failure that is bound to be its lot in the upcoming election in Edo State. Governor Godwin Obaseki and the candidate in the election both know they will suffer huge defeat.
“It is important to even ask which PDP is talking in Edo State because the real Edo PDP leaders who control the soul and the body of the party have since abandoned the party for the APC. What is remaining is a carcass that Governor Obaseki is merely using as his special-purpose vehicle.
“The shambolic party in Edo is only a crying wolf where there is none to cover its ill-preparation and coming defeat in the election. The DSS and NSA work for the security of the country and the preservation of every part of the country. Such an important institution can never work for the subversion of the electoral process and democracy under any guise.”
A group, the Edo Salvation has justified the endorsement of the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Saturday’s governorship election, Asue Ighodalo by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
A statement by its national coordinator, Mr Immam Ekpe, said the endorsement was not unconnected with the impressive relationship between outgoing Gov. Godwin Obaseki and the unions.
Ekpe said that workers under the aegis of the NLC and the TUC staged a rally last Friday at the Government House asking all workers in the state to vote for Ighodalo. He said this would enable the candidate to continue with the good welfare and industrial relations of Obaseki if voted into power.
He said: “We noted that Obaseki has been proactive in considering the welfare of workers as Edo became the first state in the country to implement a minimum wage of N70,000. That was in May well before the workers even entered into full negotiation with the Federal Government.
“The new wage is being paid promptly on the 26th of every month at a time that many other states are not even paying the N30,000 minimum wage. Obaseki has been setting aside N200 million monthly for the payment of gratuities for workers who retired during the period of former governor, Adams Oshiomhole and his predecessors.
