The All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared victory in 13 out of the 18 local government areas (LGAs) in Edo State following Saturday’s governorship election.
However, the victory has sparked controversy as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) alleged widespread voter suppression in three key LGAs: Oredo, Egor, and Ikpoba/Okha.
Despite the upload of results from 98% of polling units across the state, tensions rose when security forces prevented political party agents and election observers from entering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) collation center in Benin City, where the final results were being compiled.
High-profile political figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Ondo State Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, were all present at the INEC office during the collation process.
As tension continues to build over the alleged irregularities, all eyes are on INEC and the security forces as the final outcome of the election could shape the political landscape in Edo State. PDP has called for urgent action, insisting that democracy must not be compromised by external forces.
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politics