Edo 2024: PDP, APC Trade Blows Over Alleged Election Rigging Plot as Tensions Mount

Ahead of the Edo State governorship election slated for September 21, 2024, political tensions are soaring as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) engage in a war of words over alleged plots to rig the polls.

The PDP has accused former Edo State Governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, of conspiring to manipulate voting in his hometown, Iyamho, to favor APC candidate Senator Monday Okpebholo. The state’s Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, leveled these allegations during a press conference in Benin City, claiming that Oshiomhole had orchestrated a similar scheme during the 2020 elections.

Nehikhare further alleged that APC agents were mass-producing police uniforms and masks for thugs, aiming to disrupt the voting process in areas where they anticipate losing. The PDP also raised concerns over plans to remove security officers assigned to Governor Godwin Obaseki, leaving him vulnerable during the elections.

In response, the APC, through its spokesperson Orobosa Omo-Ojo, dismissed the accusations, accusing the PDP of “hallucinating” and spreading falsehoods in anticipation of electoral defeat. Omo-Ojo criticized Governor Obaseki and PDP candidate Asue Ighodalo for not signing a peace accord ahead of the elections, insinuating that their actions indicated an intention to use violence to secure victory.

Adding to the growing concerns, the PDP called for the removal of the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof. Anugbum Onuoha, citing his past ties to former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike. The party questioned the REC’s impartiality. However, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) rejected these calls, with Chief Press Secretary Rotimi Oyekanmi affirming that Onuoha would remain in office and that the commission would ensure a transparent electoral process.

Meanwhile, Labour Party candidate Olumide Akpata criticized both PDP and APC candidates for skipping a debate organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Election Debate Group. Akpata urged voters to hold political candidates accountable, calling their absence an indication of disrespect for the electorate.