The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has presented voter registers to 16 participating political parties ahead of the September 21 governorship election in Edo State.
Prof. Rhoda Gumus, INEC’s Supervising National Commissioner, emphasized the need for a peaceful poll, saying, “Election should not be a do-or-die affair… Politicians and their supporters in Edo State should eschew violence.”
Gumus assured that INEC is prepared for the election, with the support of security agencies, to ensure a peaceful, free, and fair process. She urged stakeholders to cooperate with the commission to ensure a seamless election.
Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, Resident Electoral Commissioner in Edo, reported that 2,501,081 voters were registered in the state for the 2023 general elections, with an additional 119,206 registrants from the Continuous Voter Registration. He encouraged eligible voters to collect their PVCs between August 22 and September 8.
Onuoha announced that campaigns will stop on September 19, with the governorship election holding on September 21.
Greg Igbinomwanhia, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council in Edo, commended INEC for conducting election activities without issues. He urged political parties to shun violence, ensuring a peaceful election.
INEC’s commitment to a peaceful and fair election is evident, with the presentation of voter registers and assurances from top officials. The Edo governorship poll is expected to be a significant test of the commission’s preparedness.
