The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has voiced concerns regarding the recent governorship election in Edo State, highlighting issues of low voter turnout and the pervasive influence of money on the electoral process.
Following the election held last Saturday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced that Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged victorious with 291,667 votes, defeating Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 247,274 votes. Labour Party candidate Olumide Akpata placed third with 22,763 votes.
The NBA’s Election Working Group, led by Bolatumi Animashaun and General Secretary Mobolaji Ojibara, monitored the election across various polling units. Their report, released Monday, noted significant delays in the arrival of voting materials and officials, particularly in Benin City. In some polling units, there were no INEC personnel or materials present, effectively halting voting altogether.
For example, at Polling Unit 30 in Egor Ward I, the absence of election materials and officials prevented any voting from taking place, raising serious concerns about logistical preparedness.
The NBA also reported instances of vote-buying, expressing disappointment that despite ongoing efforts to curb this practice, monetary influence remains a significant concern. The association noted, “Attempts were observed where political party agents discreetly tried to sway voters with monetary incentives.”
Low voter turnout was another critical issue identified, with reports indicating that participation was “notably low” in several polling units. For instance, only 10 out of 1,026 registered voters were accredited at Polling Unit 10 in Ward 4.
Despite the adverse weather conditions, some physically challenged voters showed remarkable resilience, braving heavy rain to cast their votes. The NBA acknowledged the priority treatment provided to these individuals, ensuring they could vote without hindrance.
While the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) generally functioned well, some units experienced technical difficulties. In Ward 7, Polling Unit 18, an INEC official reported that the BVAS displayed a “No Election Ongoing” message despite voting being underway.
The NBA observed a heavy presence of security personnel, which contributed to maintaining order, although incidents of gunfire were reported in the Oliha area, affecting five polling units in Egor Local Council.
Overall, the NBA described the election as generally orderly but noted that male voter participation exceeded that of females.
In its recommendations, the NBA called on INEC to ensure the timely deployment of election materials and personnel in future elections. It also stressed the need for intensified voter education campaigns to rebuild public trust and increase participation, particularly among women and youth. Additionally, the association advocated for stronger measures to combat vote-buying and enhance transparency in the electoral process.
