The recent Edo State governorship election has sparked widespread criticism from civil society organizations (CSOs), politicians, and stakeholders, who have raised concerns about the credibility of the electoral process.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been the target of accusations regarding electoral misconduct and procedural lapses. The fallout from this election could significantly impact Nigeria’s democratic process and future elections.
INEC’s Process Under Scrutiny
CSOs, including YIAGA Africa, have expressed concerns about INEC’s handling of the results collation process. Samson Itodo, Executive Director of YIAGA Africa, noted that although INEC followed its guidelines during voting, issues arose during the collation.
Itodo highlighted the regression in the results management process, citing the reappearance of election manipulation tactics. Reports also revealed that INEC officials and observers faced tear gas and intimidation during the collation, and results were collated at non-designated locations, violating electoral guidelines.
Itodo stressed that these actions undermined the credibility of the process and urged INEC to address these concerns to preserve the integrity of future elections.