#EdoDecides2024: “If INEC Messes with Edo Election, All of Nigeria Will Suffer” – Chidi Odinkalu

Former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Chidi Odinkalu, has issued a stern warning that the entire country could face consequences if the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) mishandles the ongoing governorship election in Edo State.

In a post shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Odinkalu highlighted Edo State’s strategic significance, stating, “If Mahmood Yakubu and @inecnigeria mess with #EdoDecides2024, all of Nigeria will suffer it: there is hardly anywhere you can go in Nigeria without passing through Edo.”

His comments come amidst widespread scrutiny of INEC’s handling of the election, prompting reactions from both political observers and citizens alike. Odinkalu’s criticisms were met with a rebuttal from Kamson Chidubem, convener of the Civic Integrity Initiative (CII), who accused the former NHRC chairman of biased attacks and media manipulation.

Adding to the growing chorus of concerns, Nigerian music star Davido also voiced his displeasure with the electoral process, labeling INEC as the “most dangerous institution in Nigeria.”

As of Saturday evening, INEC had uploaded 76.26% of the election results on its IREV portal, but reports of voter bribery and irregularities have surfaced, keeping tensions high as the election process continues.