The Edo State Gubernatorial and House of Assembly off-season election is currently underway in all 18 Local Government Areas of the State. The electorate is casting their votes for their preferred candidates, with about seventeen (17) political parties participating in the election.
Some political parties are urging the deployed security agencies to refrain from intimidating voters. There are reports that a heavy presence of soldiers has been deployed on the borders of Edo with Kogi, Delta, Ondo, and Anambra States.
These security operatives were stationed there on Thursday, ahead of today’s governorship poll. Additionally, detachments of soldiers and policemen were spotted in various locations within the state.
The election is considered a litmus test for all parties involved. Concerns have been raised about the use of the military during the election, with some parties expressing worries about the military’s involvement.
The National Publicity Secretary of the New Nigeria People’s Party emphasized that the military should be focused on ending insurgency in some parts of the country, rather than patrolling during elections. He also stressed the importance of a level playing field for all parties.
The National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party stated that their focus is on conducting a peaceful and fair election, and they hope to rely on the people’s support.
The National Deputy Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party expressed concerns about the deployment of soldiers and urged them to operate professionally and with decorum.
On the other hand, the National Publicity Director of the APC reassured the people of Edo State that the deployment of security operatives ahead of the election is a normal occurrence and should not cause panic.
