Today marks a pivotal moment in Edo State as 2,249,780 out of the state’s 4,777,000 residents head to the polls to decide the next governor. The incumbent governor will officially leave office on November 12, 2024, and those who have collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) among the 2,629,025 registered voters will determine his successor.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured citizens of a free and fair election, while security agencies, including the police, have pledged neutrality and adequate protection for voters and ballot materials. Despite these assurances, uncertainty hangs in the air, with some candidates already expressing optimism, while many residents remain ambivalent about the outcome.
The Candidates
Though 18 political parties are fielding candidates, the race seems to center around three key contenders:
1. Asue Ighodalo (Peoples Democratic Party – PDP): Backed by the incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki, Ighodalo’s strength lies in his affiliation with the ruling party.
2. Monday Okpebholo (All Progressives Congress – APC): Supported by the Legacy group and rumored to have federal backing, Okpebholo poses a formidable challenge.
3. Olumide Akpata (Labour Party): With growing disillusionment towards both the PDP and APC, Akpata and his Labour Party could capitalize on this sentiment to secure an upset.
Concerns about potential violence loom over the election, as parts of Edo State have seen a rise in kidnappings and cult-related violence. Low voter turnout may result if these fears persist. Yiaga Africa, a non-governmental organization monitoring the election, has identified eight local government areas (LGAs) as potential hotspots for violence, including Oredo, Egor, and Etsako West.
Reports have already surfaced about thugs attempting to disrupt INEC offices in several LGAs. However, the situation was reportedly brought under control in some areas by military intervention. Despite the tension, the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Frank Mba, reassured voters that there is no cause for alarm.
In Benin, there are fears that the election could be rigged in favor of a particular candidate. INEC and the police have consistently emphasized their commitment to neutrality, while President Bola Tinubu has urged all stakeholders to follow the “rules of the game” and allow the people’s will to prevail.
Reports have emerged that certain political parties have been offering monetary gifts and other incentives to sway voters. In Uselu Market (Egor LGA), traders were reportedly given money by both the PDP and APC, with similar occurrences in communities across Esan North East and Esan South LGAs.
While the outcome of the election remains uncertain, what is certain is that a winner will emerge to lead Edo State for the next four years.
