In preparation for Saturday’s highly anticipated Edo State governorship election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is poised to commence the distribution of sensitive election materials, including more than 5,000 Bimodal Voter Accreditation Systems (BVAS). These materials, which include ballot papers and result sheets, arrived in Edo on Wednesday under strict security and were promptly moved to secure storage facilities.
The election will see a hotly contested battle between the leading candidates—Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata. All 17 participating political parties are expected to wrap up their campaigns today, with political activity reaching fever pitch across the state.
INEC has been proactive in its preparations, deploying more than 18,000 ad-hoc staff to oversee operations across Edo’s 4,519 polling units and 211 collation centres. These efforts are supported by extensive logistical arrangements, including the Nigerian Air Force airlifting critical materials to ensure timely and secure delivery.
Security has also been stepped up, with the Nigeria Police Force deploying over 35,000 officers, bolstered by 8,000 personnel from other agencies. Drones, helicopters, and other critical assets have been moved into position to prevent any disruptions, while senior police officials will oversee operations in various regions. Frank Mba, the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, leads the security team and has assured voters that the police are ready to ensure a smooth election process.
The election has not been without controversy. The PDP has raised allegations that some INEC officials may be planning to manipulate results in favour of the APC. PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, accused the electoral body of being complicit in underhanded dealings and warned of potential violence. INEC has dismissed the claims, and security forces have vowed to clamp down on any attempts to disrupt the election.
Meanwhile, civil society groups, including the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), have expressed concerns over the neutrality of the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Edo State, citing close ties with key political figures.
As voters prepare to cast their ballots, all eyes are on INEC and the security apparatus to deliver a credible election free from violence and interference.
With just hours to go, Edo remains tense but cautiously optimistic about what lies ahead.
