The recent Edo state governorship election has raised eyebrows as the results have yet to be fully uploaded onto the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Result Viewing (IReV) portal, even 24 hours after the announcement of the winner. Monday Okpebholo from the All Progressive Congress (APC) was declared the winner of the election held on Saturday, September 21. A follow-up check by Legit.ng showed that, as of 6 pm on Monday, September 23, the INEC portal remained unchanged since Sunday morning.
The election was closely monitored, with INEC reportedly having uploaded 98 percent of the results as of the morning of September 22. This remaining delay in uploading the complete results has sparked concerns about transparency and credibility in the electoral process, especially given the backdrop of previous failures to update results in the 2023 presidential election.
As we delve deeper into the dynamics of the Edo governorship election, we will explore the implications of the delayed results, the voting patterns among major political parties, and the reactions from key stakeholders, including the defeated parties and civil society. The ongoing situation not only affects the political landscape in Edo state but also raises questions about electoral integrity in Nigeria as a whole.
Overview of the Edo Governorship Election Results
According to official counts, Okpebholo received 291,667 votes, securing a victory over Asue Ighodalo from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 247,274 votes. The Labour Party's Olumide Akpata came in third with 22,763 votes. The APC's strong performance in eleven local government areas contrasted sharply with the PDP's seven councils, highlighting regional voting trends that could influence future elections.
This election was characterized as a competitive three-horse race among the leading candidates, each backed by significant party machinery. However, the aftermath has been marred by accusations from the PDP and Governor Godwin Obaseki, who alleged that the INEC and the APC manipulated the results in favor of Okpebholo.
Political Reactions and Allegations
The political climate following the election results has been tense. The PDP has openly rejected the results, claiming irregularities and calling for investigations into the electoral process. Governor Obaseki's remarks have underscored the party's dissatisfaction with how the election was conducted, further straining relations among the political factions in Edo state.
Furthermore, the delayed updates on the INEC IReV portal have exacerbated these tensions, leading to widespread speculation about the transparency of the electoral process. The result viewing portal is intended to enhance electoral integrity, but the current situation raises significant concerns about its effectiveness.
Outcome of Local Government Areas
It was reported that Okpebholo not only won the overall election but also managed to defeat Obaseki in his own local government area of Oredo, securing 5,842 votes. This defeat is significant as it reflects a shift in voter sentiment and could have long-term implications for the PDP's influence in the region.
In light of these developments, stakeholders are closely monitoring how the INEC will handle the remaining updates on the results and whether any legal actions will be pursued by the PDP and other parties involved. The outcome of this election could serve as a barometer for future political contests in Nigeria, especially with ongoing discussions about electoral reforms.
As the situation unfolds, the integrity of the electoral process will remain a pressing concern for both voters and political players alike. The need for a transparent and accountable electoral system is crucial for fostering public trust and ensuring that democracy thrives in Nigeria.
