The atmosphere was charged at polling unit 11 of Ward 6 as Labour Party (LP) candidate Olumide Akpata arrived to cast his vote around 10:30 AM. After completing the process, Akpata expressed satisfaction but urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure fairness throughout the election.
“The process went well,” he remarked, though he tempered his optimism, noting, “I want to wait for feedback from my agents across the state. It’s 192 wards and 4,500 polling units.”
Akpata emphasized the importance of a level playing field: “Nobody should be given any undue advantage. All of our agents should be allowed into collation centers. We need transparency to confirm that the process aligns with the law and electoral guidelines.”
He called on INEC to take advantage of the unique nature of this off-cycle election, stating, “All eyes are on INEC; the entire country is watching, and we are hoping they will do a good job.”
Likewise, across town in Irrua, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Monday Okpebholo, cast his vote at polling unit 1, Ward 2 in Udomi Primary School. He commended the organization of the voting process, praising INEC for its efficiency in his ward. “Everything has been well coordinated,” he stated.
Meanwhile, at the Idinrio Primary School polling unit in Ewohimi, disappointment loomed as voting materials arrived late for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Asue Ighodalo. INEC officials reached the site at approximately 10:30 AM, just moments before Ighodalo arrived at 10:33 AM.
Expressing his frustration, Ighodalo acknowledged that while the voting was still within the allotted time, the delays were concerning. “I’m giving INEC the benefit of the doubt,” he said, urging voters to remain calm. “However, we’ve received reports of intimidation against our supporters, including arrests by individuals in police mufti.”
Ighodalo detailed an incident involving a supporter in Uromi who was apprehended while waiting to vote, raising alarms about potential voter suppression tactics.
As the proceedings continued, a strong security presence at the polling centers helped ensure a peaceful voting environment, while the timely arrival of electoral officers allowed the process to run smoothly. With over 2.2 million permanent voter cards collected, candidates and voters alike remained watchful as the gubernatorial elections unfolded across Edo State today.
