The Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA) has declared that the Edo State governorship election, held on September 21, 2024, was free, fair, and credible.
During a press conference in Benin City, the state capital, the announcement was made by Dr Gabriel Nwambu, the centre’s convener, and Mr Osaretin Omoh, its secretary. The CCLCA, a coalition of 51 observer organisations accredited by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), provided this assessment after observing the entire electoral process.
According to the CCLCA, INEC adhered to most of the established electoral standards. The centre observed the distribution of sensitive and non-sensitive electoral materials from the Central Bank of Nigeria in Benin City to INEC’s local government offices, followed by their transfer to various Registration Area Centres (RAC) under tight security.
It further noted that INEC ad hoc staff, mostly National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, transported the materials to the 4,518 polling units where voting commenced between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Some delays, caused by heavy rainfall and logistical challenges, were reported, particularly in areas where police escorts were absent.
The CCLCA acknowledged some irregularities, including instances of vote-buying, which it described as more sophisticated than in previous elections. Additionally, it reported an incident where military personnel denied access to accredited observers despite proper identification.
Governor Fintiri’s Controversial Declaration
The CCLCA strongly condemned Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri for prematurely declaring the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate the winner of the Edo election.
The centre called the governor’s action a serious violation of Sections 178 and 179 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, accusing him of undermining INEC’s authority. The CCLCA recommended that Fintiri be held accountable and face legal consequences after his immunity expires in 2027.
Despite some concerns, the centre was relieved to report that the election concluded without violence. It praised the collation of results, which was carried out meticulously in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 and the Nigerian Constitution.
Low Voter Turnout Attributed to Weather Conditions
The CCLCA also addressed voter turnout, attributing the relatively low 22% participation rate to adverse weather conditions. However, it maintained that the election met the requirements of a free and credible electoral process.
The group commended the Inspector General of Police for the professionalism displayed by officers and lauded INEC for overseeing a successful election. Finally, the CCLCA expressed gratitude to the people of Edo State for their peaceful conduct throughout the process.
- The discrepancy in CCLCA’s assessment and that of other observer groups, such as Yiaga Africa and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), remains a topic of discussion. These groups raised concerns over the election’s conduct, especially regarding transparency and logistical issues.
- Investigations into the logistical challenges highlighted by CCLCA, particularly the absence of police escorts for INEC materials, are expected to be conducted to improve future elections.
- Governor Fintiri’s unauthorised declaration has prompted calls for a legal review of post-election protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
