The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon. Philip Shaibu, has lauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting a free, fair, and transparent poll in the Edo State governorship election.
Shaibu, who spoke on Monday during an interview on Arise TV, praised the Professor Mahmood Yakubu-led INEC for adhering to the electoral acts and ensuring that every vote counts.
“This election is one of the most peaceful and transparent in recent times. The Nigerian police force was present at every location, and they were professional. The BVAS machines all worked without glitches. In the 37 units in my ward, only one malfunctioned, but it was fixed and worked throughout. This election was credible, free, transparent, and fair,” he said.
The off-cycle election held on Saturday has received widespread commendation, with many observers praising Prof. Yakubu and his team for their management of the poll. Observers noted improvements in the electoral process, including better voter engagement, transparency, and the efficient use of technology. These positive changes reflect ongoing efforts by Prof Yakubu to enhance the integrity of elections in Nigeria, fostering greater public trust in the electoral system.
In the lead-up to the poll, INEC Chairman Prof. Yakubu assured that the commission would protect the choice of the Edo electorate in the September 21 governorship election. While assuring the public of free, fair, and credible elections, Yakubu reiterated that the responsibility of choosing the next governor of the state rests entirely with the voters.
Yakubu stated, “INEC is not a political party and, therefore, doesn’t have a candidate in this election. The responsibility of choosing the next Edo State governor is entirely in the hands of Edo voters. Our assurance to all registered voters is to come out to vote for the party and candidate of their choice. INEC will protect the integrity of the process and uphold the choice made by the electorate.”
INEC on Sunday declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the closely contested governorship election. Okpebholo, 54, secured 291,667 votes, defeating Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who received 247,274 votes, and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP), who came in a distant third with 22,763 votes. Fourteen other candidates contested the poll to find a successor for Gov. Godwin Obaseki, who will be rounding off his second term in office.