PDP Demands Redeployment of Electoral Commissioner and Police Commissioner Ahead of Edo State Governorship Election
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for the immediate redeployment of the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Anugbum Onuoha, and the Commissioner of Police, Nemo Edwin-Iwo, ahead of the September 21 governorship election in the state. The party’s Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, made the demand at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday.
Damagum stated that the party would not sign the National Peace Committee’s accord due to concerns about the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration. He accused the APC of employing violence, manipulation, and police operatives to allegedly harass and detain innocent PDP members and supporters in Edo State.
The PDP boss warned that the party would defend its votes with blood and urged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, to ensure a smooth election in the state.
Damagum also stated that the party’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, is poised for a decisive victory, anticipated to secure nearly 70% of the vote in the election. He noted that Ighodalo has garnered substantial support and solidarity from a broad cross-section of Edo State residents, regardless of party affiliation.
The PDP chairman stressed that for the elections to be free, fair, and credible, the Inspector General of Police must uphold his responsibilities to the Nigerian people, adhere to the Constitution, and ensure peace and security in Edo State and across the nation.
The party also demanded that the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, immediately redeploy the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, from the State, especially now that people are already agitated against this obnoxious appointment.
In conclusion, the PDP is determined to defend its votes and ensure a free and fair election in Edo State. The party is calling on the APC and police operatives to respect the rights of all citizens and ensure a peaceful election.
