#EdoDecides2024: APC Plotting to Invade Collation Centers, Alter Results, PDP Alleges

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a stern warning regarding alleged plans by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to disrupt the ongoing collation of results in the Edo State Governorship election. In a press statement released today, the PDP claims that the APC is plotting to use armed thugs to invade collation centers with the intent to alter the election outcome, which currently places the PDP’s candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, in a clear lead.

According to the statement signed by PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the party has obtained intelligence indicating that the APC is pressuring the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to suspend the collation process. The aim, according to the PDP, is to manipulate INEC’s portal and substitute authentic results from the polling units with fabricated figures favoring the APC.

“The people of Edo State already have the authentic results from the polling units across the state,” Ologunagba stated, adding that any attempt to alter these results could have severe repercussions. “INEC must not lose sight of the violent protests that occurred during the 2023 Adamawa State Governorship election when attempts were made to manipulate the outcome,” he warned.

The PDP further alleged that APC is also attempting to influence the military to withdraw from strategic positions, thereby enabling their thugs to disrupt the collation process. The party praised the military for its professionalism so far and urged the Military High Command to resist any pressure to compromise their stance.

“We commend the military for defending democracy in Edo State, and we urge them not to yield to pressure from the APC to step down and allow for the manipulation of the process,” Ologunagba added.

The PDP also charged INEC to resist any external influence from the APC and ensure that the electoral process remains transparent and credible. “INEC must ensure that nobody tampers with the results as obtained from the polling units,” Ologunagba stressed.

As tensions rise, the PDP has called on the people of Edo State to remain vigilant and continue monitoring the collation process to safeguard their votes. “We urge Edo citizens to stay at the collation center in their numbers and protect their democratic rights,” the party said.

The PDP concluded by reiterating its commitment to protecting the will of the people, warning that any attempt to subvert the election results could lead to dire consequences for those involved.