Edo State Governorship Election Preparations: INEC Mobilizes Resources for a Smooth Poll

As the Edo State governorship election approaches, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is ramping up its efforts to ensure a transparent, free, and credible voting process. Scheduled for September 21, 2024, the election will see the deployment of over 5,000 Bimodal Voter Accreditation Systems (BVAS) alongside a significant number of election personnel and sensitive materials to bolster the electoral process.

The sensitive materials, which include crucial items such as ballot papers and result sheets, were airlifted from Abuja and arrived at the Benin Airport on Wednesday. This operation was meticulously monitored, with security measures in place to ensure that these materials were securely transported to designated storage facilities. The heightened security around this material indicates the seriousness with which INEC is approaching this election.

As the political landscape heats up, the 17 political parties participating in the election are concluding their campaigns, with the leading candidates being Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party. Each candidate is striving to engage voters and solidify their support in the final days leading up to the election.

INEC has confirmed that more than 5,000 BVAS devices will be deployed for the election. This technology is pivotal for ensuring accurate voter accreditation and results transmission. A senior INEC official emphasized, “BVAS is a sensitive election material. It will be deployed with other sensitive materials to guarantee a seamless electoral process.”

In total, over 18,000 ad-hoc staff will assist in the election, with each of the 4,519 polling units across Edo State requiring a dedicated team of four officers. This staffing strategy is designed to maintain order and efficiency during the voting process. Additionally, Supervisory Presiding Officers will oversee operations at various polling units, further ensuring the integrity of the election.

The Nigeria Police Force has also announced robust security measures for the election, deploying 35,000 officers in Edo State, with an expectation of an additional 8,000 personnel from other security agencies. This extensive deployment aims to maintain peace and order during the election and prevent any potential disruptions.

Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force spokesperson, outlined the security strategy, stating, “We have enough officers to monitor deployment and supervise the conduct of our men and other security agents there.” He noted that drones and helicopters would be utilized to enhance surveillance and response capabilities.

The police have also addressed concerns regarding the alleged indiscriminate arrests of PDP members, clarifying that those apprehended are connected to the murder of a police officer in the area. Adejobi emphasized the police’s commitment to maintaining law and order, reaffirming that their actions are targeted and not politically motivate

The Nigerian Air Force has begun airlifting additional election materials to Edo State as part of a collaborative effort with INEC to ensure the timely delivery of essential equipment for the elections. Group Captain Kabiru Ali, the Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, stated, “This airlift operation is part of our broader initiative to facilitate logistics and ensure a peaceful election process in Edo State.

As the election date approaches, tensions between political parties have intensified. The PDP has raised alarms about alleged attempts by the APC to manipulate the electoral process, claiming that some INEC officials are colluding with the ruling party to influence the election results. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, urged INEC to uphold its responsibility and ensure that the election reflects the will of the people.

In response to accusations of election manipulation, the APC has countered that the N1 billion grant promised by Governor Obaseki to market women is merely an inducement to sway voters. The APC has criticized the timing of the pledge, arguing that it is a last-ditch effort by an incumbent government facing significant challenges

As various stakeholders prepare for the election, organizations such as the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) have expressed concerns regarding the electoral process’s integrity. They have called for the redeployment of certain officials whose connections could compromise neutrality, particularly regarding the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner.

In the face of these challenges, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has reassured residents of Edo State of a secure voting environment. He emphasized the military’s commitment to conducting their operations professionally, warning against any attempts to disrupt the electoral process.

With less than 72 hours to the election, political parties are making their final campaign efforts. The APC plans to intensify its unit-to-unit campaign strategy, while Labour Party leader Peter Obi has urged voters to make informed choices to pave the way for better governance.

As Edo State prepares for what is anticipated to be a highly contested election, various organizations, including the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership, are gearing up to conduct post-election audits to ensure accountability and transparency in the electoral process.

In conclusion, the upcoming Edo State governorship election is poised to be a significant event, with extensive preparations underway to ensure a smooth and credible process. As voters prepare to cast their ballots, the focus remains on maintaining peace, transparency, and the integrity of the democratic process.