Tension High in Edo State Ahead of Governorship Polls
The recent Peace Accord fallout in Edo State has raised concerns about voter turnout in the upcoming September 21, 2024 governorship polls. According to Samson Itodo, Executive Director of pro-democracy group Yiaga Africa, the crisis of confidence in the state may lead to a significant decline in voter participation.
"It’s the first time a political party won’t sign a peace accord" in about a decade, Itodo said on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme. "This crisis of confidence will give voters so much fear that their votes won’t count next week."
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) shunned the pre-election peace pact, citing allegations of police misconduct. PDP Chairman Tony Aziegbemi stormed out of the signing ceremony, claiming that a party member was arrested and still held by the police.
The PDP’s decision has sparked tension in the state, with Itodo warning that the environment is not safe for voters to participate in the election. He urged the party and its candidate to sign the accord to de-escalate the situation.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has been urged to invite stakeholders to a meeting to address concerns and prevent post-election disputes. Itodo also appealed to security agents and the electoral umpire to conduct themselves in an impartial and unbiased manner.
The governorship election in Edo State has top contenders, including PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, LP’s Olumide Akpata, and APC’s Monday Okpebholo. With over 2.6 million registered voters set to decide the next governor, the stakes are high.
The situation in Edo State serves as a stark reminder of the importance of peace and stability in the electoral process. As Nigeria prepares for its next set of polls, it is crucial that all stakeholders prioritize the safety and confidence of voters.
