Fatshimetrie: A Look at Security and Electoral Issues in Edo State Elections
Against the backdrop of the upcoming elections in Edo State, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has announced enhanced security measures with the deployment of 35,000 police officers across the state. In addition, 8,000 operatives from sister security forces such as the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Peace Corps (NSCDC) will also be deployed to ensure the security of the polls. This was made during a stakeholders meeting organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and chaired by its Chairman, Professor Mamhud Yakubu.
A major announcement was made during the meeting with the presence of the former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who will oversee the signing of the peace pact between the various political parties and their candidates. Representatives of the 17 participating political parties, the Inter-Party Consultative Council (IPAC), the Oba of Benin’s palace, civil society groups and other stakeholders were also present.
It is noteworthy that the Inspector General of Police stressed that the activities of semi-security organisations like the Edo State Security Network (ESSN) remain suspended and will have no role to play during the election day. In addition, bodyguards attached to political personalities will be withdrawn to ensure a free and fair electoral process.
The Electoral Commission confirmed that it has successfully completed 11 of the 13 scheduled activities, with only two remaining: the end of political parties’ campaigning on 19th September midnight and the election day on 21st September. Adjustments were made to the final list of candidates following court orders, which resulted in the increase in the number of political parties participating in the election from 17 to 18.
On voter turnout, the Commission recorded the issuance of 184,438 permanent voters cards in Edo State, with 119,206 new voters and 65,232 verified applications for transfer from other states or within the state. This data was released for public information, commending the mobilisation of local stakeholders for voter registration and card collection.
In addition, the Commission accredited 134 observer groups (124 national and 10 international) that will deploy 1,836 observers across the state, as well as 114 media houses mobilising 721 journalists to cover the event.
In a call for restraint and non-violence, the INEC chairman assured that the body was ready to ensure free and fair elections in Edo State. Political actors and their supporters are therefore called upon to respect the integrity of the democratic process and cooperate to ensure transparent elections.
In this crucial period for democracy and stability in the region, it is paramount that all stakeholders demonstrate responsibility and commitment to peaceful and credible elections. Fatshimetrie is closely following developments in the run-up to the Edo State elections and will continue to update the public on the evolving political and security situation.