INEC chairman reassures stakeholders ahead of Edo governorship election

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, addressed stakeholders on the final preparations for the upcoming Edo State governorship election, scheduled for September 21, 2024.

Speaking at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City on September 11, 2024, Professor Yakubu emphasized INEC’s commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and transparent election.

Welcoming stakeholders, including the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Professor Yakubu highlighted the importance of the meeting as a platform to discuss the preparations for the election.

The Inspector-General of Police also addressed the gathering, focusing on security measures for the upcoming polls.

Key Points from INEC’s Preparations

Timetable and Election Activities: Professor Yakubu stated that INEC has successfully completed 11 out of the 13 scheduled activities for the election, including the publication of the final list of candidates. Only two activities remain: the end of political campaigns on September 19, and the election itself on September 21.

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Court-Ordered Adjustments: He mentioned two court-ordered changes to the candidates’ list, which included the replacement of the Labour Party’s running mate and the inclusion of the National Rescue Movement (NRM) on the ballot.

Voter Registration and PVC Collection: INEC has delivered 184,438 Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) to Edo State, with the state now boasting 2,629,025 registered voters. The commission plans to publish detailed PVC collection statistics for each of the 4,519 polling units across the state.

Stakeholder Engagement and Transparency: The election has attracted both domestic and international interest, with 134 observer groups and 114 media organizations accredited. Professor Yakubu reassured stakeholders of INEC’s transparency and readiness, citing multiple engagements with stakeholders and the successful mock accreditation conducted to test the electoral technology.

Security Assurances: Addressing security concerns, Professor Yakubu assured that security agencies have been fully briefed, and measures are in place to protect voters, officials, and election materials.

Deployment of Technology: INEC will deploy BVAS machines for voter accreditation and real-time result uploads to the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal, ensuring the credibility of the election. Professor Yakubu confirmed that new, fully configured machines would be used on Election Day.

Professor Yakubu confirmed that sensitive election materials would arrive in Edo State early next week, with stakeholders invited to inspect them at the Central Bank in Benin City. He urged political parties and candidates to restrain their supporters from engaging in violence and to lead by example in promoting peace.

Concluding his address, Professor Yakubu reminded stakeholders of the Peace Accord signing scheduled for September 12, 2024, which will be presided over by former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar. The Peace Accord, a significant tradition in Nigerian elections, is expected to foster a peaceful election environment in Edo State.

The INEC Chairman’s address underscored the commission’s dedication to delivering a credible election, urging all stakeholders to contribute positively to the process.