The Edo State Civil Society Organizations (EDOCSO) has urged the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, to use the September 21 governorship election in Edo State to restore the commission’s integrity by ensuring a free, fair, and credible poll.
Coordinator General Comrade Omobude Agho made this statement while addressing journalists in Benin City regarding the upcoming election. He emphasized that any failure to conduct a transparent election would further discourage voter participation in future polls.
Agho stated, “INEC must not discourage genuine voters by their actions or inactions in this Saturday’s governorship election. This presents a golden opportunity for the commission to redeem its image.”
He called on Prof. Yakubu to reassure Nigerians and restore trust in the electoral process, especially given past controversies surrounding INEC’s election outcomes. Agho stressed that the future of democracy in Nigeria relies on the commission’s leadership.
He also commended the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for temporarily banning the Edo State Security Network (ESSN) and insisted that police and security agencies must remain impartial and responsive to citizens’ needs during the election.