The Edo chapter of the Labour Party expressed disappointment on Tuesday over the declaration that Saturday’s House of Assembly election in the state was inconclusive in areas it considers strongholds. The party also alleged that officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were compromised during the election.
Addressing journalists in Benin City, Labour Party state chairman Kelly Ogbaloi, flanked by party leaders including newly elected House of Representatives member for Oredo constituency Esosa Iyawe, said the March 18 assembly election was marred by low turnout, gross irregularities, and the involvement of political thugs. “Despite supporters coming out to cast their votes for the Labour Party, the announced results give cause for concern,” Ogbaloi said. He noted that the party has records of election results being manipulated in the state and stressed its strong opposition to such developments.
Ogbaloi condemned the “atrocities” committed by agents and thugs loyal to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at Ward 4, Egor, and other areas of Oredo Local Government Area, calling them unacceptable and demanding accountability. He added that the inconclusive declaration of results in places where the Labour Party is leading is unacceptable, and affirmed that the party will continue to challenge INEC and others involved to ensure that the mandate freely given by the people is reclaimed.
Meanwhile, INEC released the official results for the Edo Assembly poll on Tuesday. According to a press statement signed by state INEC Voters Education/Publicity officer Timidi Wariowei, the PDP secured 12 seats, the All Progressives Congress (APC) won eight seats, and the Labour Party obtained one seat.
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