By Gloria Ikibah
The Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate, Olumide Akpata, has highlighted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has no reason not to conduct a free and fair election in Edo State, which is an off-cycle election.
Akoata who state this after casting his vote at Oredo ward 6, unit 11, noted that the process went smoothly, which is what Edo voters hope for.
He however, emphasised the importance of waiting for feedback from party agents stationed across the state’s 192 wards and 4,500 polling units to assess the broader situation. Akpata urged INEC to ensure a level playing field, allowing all parties’ agents into collation centers without hindrance, so the electoral process can be observed as mandated by law.
The LP Guber candidate also highlighted the heavy deployment of security personnel in Edo, questioning whether their presence was for the benefit of the people or certain individuals.
Akpata further stated that INEC has the resources to ensure the election is conducted properly and that the nation is watching their performance closely.