Asue Ighodalo, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the ongoing Edo State gubernatorial election, has spoken out regarding alleged compromise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). While addressing concerns of electoral misconduct, Ighodalo stated that he prefers to keep an open mind and give the commission the benefit of the doubt. He expressed hope that INEC would ensure a free and fair election.
However, Ighodalo voiced his frustration over the late arrival of INEC officials to several polling units across the state, particularly in his stronghold areas. At his own polling unit, located in Okaegben Ward 1, Unit 3, where voters had gathered as early as 8:34 a.m., the INEC officials didn’t arrive until 10:31 a.m., delaying the commencement of the voting process. Despite the rain, voters organized themselves under a canopy, patiently awaiting the arrival of electoral materials.
In an interview, Ighodalo addressed the rumors circulating about INEC's impartiality in some regions, especially areas where PDP support is strong. He said, I want to keep an open mind because we had rumors before that INEC has been compromised, but I don’t want to believe that. I want to give them the benefit of the doubt and see how things progress in the next few hours.He emphasized that the INEC chairman had assured him of their commitment to conducting a free and fair election.
Despite the delays, Ighodalo urged the people of Edo State to remain calm, come out in large numbers to vote, and not be intimidated. He noted that in some areas, such as Ward 10 in his local government, there were no INEC materials or officials as of the time of reporting, but he remained hopeful that the situation would improve.
Ighodalo also raised concerns about the arrests of his supporters, particularly in Uromi Ward 8, Unit 3, where one of his men was reportedly arrested by armed individuals in civilian clothing. He called on the authorities to ensure that no one carries firearms to polling units, as it goes against the election regulations.
Ighodalo and his wife, Ifeyinwa, eventually cast their votes at Okaegben Ward 1, Unit 3, around 10:45 a.m., after voting had officially commenced. The process was orderly, with elderly voters and people with disabilities given priority. Voters at Units 3 and 15 of Okaegben Ward 1 in Ewohimi, Esan South East Local Government Area, were accredited and cast their votes peacefully.
One voter, 80-year-old Madam Ruth Bello, praised the smooth and peaceful voting process, while Pa Wilson Bello expressed satisfaction with the efficiency of INEC officials, suggesting that voting could be completed by 2 p.m. if the process continued at the same pace.
As the election continues, Ighodalo encouraged voters to protect their votes and remain at the polling units to await the outcome. He reiterated his call for calm and orderliness throughout the exercise.