PDP Governors’ Forum Urges INEC to Uphold Impartiality in Edo Governorship Elections

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain impartiality, uphold democratic principles, and respect the sovereign will of the people in the ongoing Edo State Governorship Election. The forum emphasized that, given the country’s current economic and security challenges, it is crucial to avoid a disputed election result.

In a press release issued on Sunday, September 22, 2024, and signed by Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, CON, Executive Governor of Bauchi State and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, the forum expressed its strong interest in the Edo election. The statement, posted on the party’s official X account, reads as follows:

1. **Acknowledgment of Edo Electorate**: The forum commends the people of Edo State, a proud Benin Kingdom, for coming out in large numbers to exercise their democratic right and choose the next governor.

2. **Confidence in the PDP Candidate**: The PDP Governors’ Forum expressed confidence in the achievements of the outgoing Governor, His Excellency Godwin Obaseki, and in the qualifications of the PDP’s governorship candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo. The forum noted that the enlightened Edo electorate would make the right choice, particularly given the ongoing hardships caused by the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.

3. **Role of PDP Governors**: The forum expressed pride in the role of PDP Governors, including His Excellency Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, His Excellency Governor Duoye Diri of Bayelsa State, His Excellency Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas of Taraba State, and His Excellency Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori of Delta State. These governors have closely monitored the electoral process and encouraged voters to remain calm and law-abiding.

4. **Clarification on Election Monitoring**: The forum praised Governor Ahmadu Fintiri for providing accurate updates on the election results as collated and uploaded on INEC’s IREV portal. This transparency, the statement says, was intended to prevent any manipulation and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process. The forum dismissed accusations by the APC of usurping INEC’s responsibility, noting that the PDP governors acted lawfully and responsibly.

5. **Call for INEC’s Impartiality**: The PDP Governors’ Forum urged INEC to adhere to its oath of office and serve as an impartial umpire committed to deepening Nigeria’s multi-party democracy. The forum reminded the electoral body of its duty to meet public expectations by ensuring the process reflects the people’s will.

6. **Importance of Avoiding Disputed Results**: In light of the nation’s current economic and security challenges, the forum stressed the importance of INEC and all stakeholders respecting the sovereign wishes of the Edo electorate. The forum warned that disputed election results could have unpredictable consequences, especially given the perceived threat to democracy posed by the Tinubu-led APC administration.

7. **Commitment to Democratic Practices**: The PDP Governors’ Forum reiterated its commitment to democratic best practices, peace, and stability in Nigeria. The forum pledged to provide the Nigerian people with opportunities to realize their legitimate aspirations despite the current national hardships.

8. **Anticipation of Fair Results**: The forum expressed optimism that the election results would truly reflect the will of the Edo people as expressed through their votes.

9. **Support for PDP Governors**: Finally, the forum fully endorsed the actions and decisions taken by Governors Fintiri, Diri, Agbu Kefas, and Oborevwori during the election, reaffirming their commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.

The PDP Governors’ Forum remains committed to the sanctity of the electoral process and the stability of democracy in Nigeria.