The Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA) announced yesterday that the governorship election in Edo State was conducted in a manner that was free, fair, and credible.
According to CCLCA, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) adhered to most of the established electoral standards.
This centre, which is comprised of a coalition of 51 observer organizations accredited by INEC, held a press conference in Benin City, the capital of Edo State.
During the event, Dr. Gabriel Nwambu, the convener of the centre, along with secretary Mr. Osaretin Omoh, stated that the coalition was providing an impartial report based on their observations.
The submission of this coalition differs from those of Yiaga Africa and the Center for Democracy and Development (CDD), which raised concerns regarding the election’s conduct.
Nevertheless, in its assessment of the overall execution of the election, CCLCA reported that it observed the distribution of both sensitive and non-sensitive electoral materials from the Central Bank of Nigeria in Benin City to the local government offices of INEC.
Also, it observed the subsequent transfer to various Registration Area Centres (RAC) was carried out under stringent security measures.
“We noted that the election materials were ultimately moved to the 4,518 polling units by INEC ad hoc staff, predominantly National Youth Service Corps members.
“Voting commenced between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM in most observed polling units. The delay in some areas was due primarily to heavy rainfall, with a few instances of logistical challenges noted. In certain RAC centres, electoral materials and staff were prepared for movement but lacked police escorts. Although these instances were minimal, they warrant attention,” the CCLCA noted.
It, however, observed some anomalies, “Vote buying was observed in some polling units, notably more sophisticated than in previous elections.
“An incident of concern involved military personnel denying access to accredited observers despite proper identification.”
Similarly, the centre also strongly condemned the unauthorized declaration by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa state, in which the governor declared that the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was the validly elected candidate.
“We are compelled to address a severe violation that occurred post-election. The Governor of Adamawa State, Mr. Ahmadu Fintiri, held a press conference declaring the candidate of his party as the winner of the Edo State governorship election.
“This action blatantly contravenes Sections 178 and 179 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and undermines the authority of INEC. Such behaviour is unbecoming of a public office holder and could erode public trust in our democratic processes,” the CCLCA noted.
Part of the text of their address reads:
“We were relieved to report that the election concluded without violence, despite the inflammatory remarks made by some politicians, including the outgoing governor, who referred to the election as a “do or die” affair.
“The collation of results was conducted meticulously, adhering to the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022 Amended and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.”
The centre, therefore, strongly recommended that Fintiri be held accountable for usurping the powers of INEC, and appropriate legal actions should be taken, saying he has to be prosecuted in 2027 as the immunity is lifted.
“Further investigations into the logistics failures witnessed, including the absence of police escort and delays caused by transport workers, should be conducted to ensure future elections run smoothly.
“We acknowledge the relatively low voter turnout of 22%, largely attributable to adverse weather conditions. However, we assert that the Edo State Governorship Election of September 21, 2024, was conducted in line with the Electoral Act, 2022 and the 1999 Constitution as amended.
“We as 51 INEC Accredited observer organizations, hereby unequivocally declare that this election was transparent, free, fair, and credible. Importantly, we report no loss of life on election day, which reflects positively on the overall conduct.
“We commend the Inspector General of the Nigerian Police for the professionalism exhibited by officers in the discharge of their duties, as well as INEC for overseeing a credible election. Lastly, we applaud the people of Edo State for their peaceful disposition, demonstrating their unwavering love for peace,” the Centre concluded.
