Edo Decides: Akpata Urges INEC To Ensure Free, Fair Election

Labour Party governorship candidate, Mr. Olumide Akpata, has stated that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has no reason not to conduct a free and fair election in Edo State, given that it is an off-cycle election.

Akpata made this statement after casting his vote at Oredo Ward 6, Unit 11. He noted that the voting process at his location went smoothly, which is what every voter in Edo State hopes for and expects.

While acknowledging the positive experience at his polling unit, Akpata said it was too early to make any conclusions. He emphasized that he would wait for reports from his party’s agents across the 192 wards and 4,500 polling units in the state.

“We are optimistic that every voter in Edo will have a similar experience. I urge INEC to ensure a level playing field, with no undue advantage given to any candidate. All party agents should be granted access to the collation centers. No one should be restricted from witnessing the process to confirm that it follows the electoral laws and the constitution,” Akpata said.

He further stressed that INEC must take full advantage of this off-cycle election to efficiently deploy their resources. “INEC has no excuse. They are not overwhelmed with multiple elections happening simultaneously, so they have the resources to deliver a credible process.”

Akpata concluded by noting that with the heavy presence of security personnel in Edo, it remains to be seen if they are there to protect the people or to serve specific interests. He expressed hope that INEC will meet the expectations of voters and observers across the country.