Thousands of supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gathered on Monday at the Edo State headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Benin City to protest what they claim is an attempt by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, to tamper with electoral materials from the September 21 governorship election.
The protest, led by Deputy Governor-elect Rt. Hon Dennis Idahosa, resulted in a blockade of the INEC office entrance, causing significant traffic disruption in the area. The protesters warned INEC against allowing any interference with the election documents, especially ahead of the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal’s proceedings.
The protest comes in response to a court-enrolled order obtained by Ighodalo and the PDP. The order directs INEC to grant the PDP and their legal team access to inspect electoral materials, including voter registers, ballot papers, BVAS machines, and several other key forms used during the governorship election. The order also mandates INEC to ensure that all these materials are preserved securely, pending the determination of the PDP’s petition at the tribunal.
Despite the protesters’ concerns, members of Ighodalo’s legal team, led by Olusegun Jolaowo (SAN), submitted the court order to INEC. Afterward, they were instructed to return the following day for further action on the matter.
Speaking to the media, Jolaowo confirmed that the legal team was acting in accordance with the court order to gather evidence to support their petition. The situation has heightened tensions in the state as both parties prepare for the tribunal hearings.