Election periods are always highly tense in Nigeria, often due to the lack of credibility and frequent abuses of the democratic process. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has now found itself in a position where it must plead with influential figures not to undermine democracy.
As the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states approach, INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu has warned against the misuse of incumbency power. He emphasized that when ruling parties deny opposition access to campaign venues, it often leads to unrest.
Why It Matters
The Situation in Edo State
Edo State is witnessing significant political tension. Governor Godwin Obaseki recently orchestrated the impeachment of his former deputy, Philip Shaibu, after Shaibu expressed his interest in running for the governorship. Obaseki replaced him with Omobayo Godwin, showcasing his influence over the political landscape. This move has heightened concerns about potential biases in the upcoming election. Obaseki supports Asue Ighodalo, the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
There is widespread fear that Obaseki might manipulate the election in Ighodalo’s favor, similar to his actions during the local government elections.
The main contenders in Edo State are:
- Asue Ighodalo (PDP) – Supported by Governor Obaseki.
- Okepbholo Monday (All Progressives Congress, APC) – Representing the primary opposition.
- Olumide Akpata Anthony (Labour Party) – Former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association.
The election, scheduled for September 21, 2024, is expected to be highly competitive and possibly contentious, given the high-profile nature of the candidates.
In Ondo State, political tensions have also been high. Last year, the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu had a falling out with his deputy, Lucky Ayedatiwa, who is now the acting governor and a gubernatorial candidate under the APC. Akeredolu, despite being seriously ill, cut short his medical leave to return and attempt to oust Ayedatiwa. However, his efforts failed, and he passed away shortly after.
Ayedatiwa’s campaign is under scrutiny, with fears that he might leverage his current position to influence the election in his favour. The Ondo State governorship election will take place on November 16, 2024.
What Are They Saying
Prof. Yakubu has appealed for security measures to protect INEC personnel and materials. The Edo State governorship election is set for September 21, 2024, and the Ondo State election for November 16, 2024. Voter registration in both states will run from May 27 to June
He said, “We need security protection for the registrants, registration personnel, equipment, observers, and journalists that will cover the CVR exercise.
“I urge you to keep your eyes on the electioneering process to prevent violent attacks or negative mobilisation by political parties, candidates, and their supporters during their campaigns.
“Similarly, the use of the power of incumbency to deny opposition parties and candidates access to public facilities, such as radio and television stations, public buildings for campaigns and rallies, or even outdoor advertising through the imposition of excessive fees and levies often results in the breach of the peace.
“These actions, including the mutual destruction of campaign materials and facilities, violate the provisions of Sections 91 to 97 of the Electoral Act 2022. The security agencies must ensure the enforcement of the law,” he said.
The INEC Chairman’s plea comes in the context of past challenges, where the commission has faced accusations of irregularities, including bribery and late arrivals of officials at polling units. These issues have raised doubts about INEC’s ability to conduct seamless elections.
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, echoed the need for strategic deployment and sustained efforts to ensure credible elections, stressing that overwhelming the system with excessive numbers could be counterproductive.
Represented by the Director of Internal Security in the ONSA, Hassan Abdullahi, the NSA said, “The same efforts for the previous elections would be extended to the forthcoming elections.
“However, we need to be careful in our deployment in terms of numbers so that we will not overburden the system.”
Bottom Line
INEC’s credibility is on the line. The commission must overcome its history of irregularities and ensure that the upcoming elections in Edo and Ondo states are free, fair, and transparent. The future of democracy in these states depends on INEC’s ability to uphold its mandate and resist political pressures.
The stakes are high, and Nigerians deserve nothing less than a true reflection of their democratic will.
