Edo Election 2024: Uphold Rule of Law, KDI Urges INEC, Security Agencies

By Abubakar Yunusa

As the 2024 Edo State Governorship Election progresses, the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) has made a strong appeal to all stakeholders—INEC, political parties, security agencies, and voters—to ensure the rule of law and maintain a peaceful electoral atmosphere.

In its preliminary statement released on Saturday, KDI emphasized the importance of transparency, urging all parties involved to prioritize the integrity of the election process.

The advocacy organization called on media outlets to promote peace and counter misinformation, warning that false narratives could incite violence.

KDI also urged security agencies to remain vigilant, especially regarding vote-buying, advising caution and arrest where necessary to safeguard the integrity of the election.

“We urge security agencies to critically investigate any instances of vote buying and selling to deter violence that could undermine the voting process,” the statement read. ”

Ensuring citizens can exercise their rights freely and fairly is paramount to our democracy.”

KDI’s statement also addressed logistical challenges, citing delays caused by heavy rainfall and inadequate transportation for INEC ad-hoc officials. The organization urged INEC to extend polling hours in affected areas and ensure that all voters in line before the polls close are allowed to cast their ballots.

The delays observed at Registration Area Centers (RACs), including Agbado Primary School in Oredo LGA and Model Primary School near Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Ikpoba-Okha LGA, were attributed to limited and inadequate transportation. In some cases, officials had yet to leave their RACs as late as 9:30 a.m., resulting in a delayed start to voting in several areas.

KDI warned that these logistical issues could create opportunities for misinformation, as anxious voters might suspect electoral materials or officials had been compromised.

The organization urged INEC and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to collaborate more effectively to prevent such disruptions in future elections.

In addition to logistical concerns, KDI noted the ongoing challenge of vote-buying. While the practice appeared more covert than in past elections, instances of cash and material exchanges, ranging from ₦1,000 to ₦10,000, were reported.

In some cases, voters were seen visiting local shops where party agents allegedly facilitated electronic money transfers.

This concerning trend underscores the need for stricter measures to combat vote-buying, KDI said. The organization reported that the military and DSS had been called in to investigate allegations of vote-buying in areas like Ikpo-Okha and Egor.

As the election moves into the crucial stages of vote sorting and counting, KDI called on security agencies to maintain professionalism and discharge their duties without fear or favor.

The organization pledged to continue monitoring the election closely to ensure transparency and accountability.

KDI remains committed to advocating for a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process, urging all stakeholders to uphold democratic values as the election unfolds.