The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a firm warning to political stakeholders in Edo State, calling on them to refrain from any actions that could disrupt the collation of gubernatorial election results.
This warning follows reports of escalating tensions and protests at INEC’s headquarters after the elections concluded on Saturday. National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna criticized the behavior of certain political figures, labeling it as inappropriate.
In a statement released on Sunday, Haruna emphasized that the collation process will continue as planned, adhering strictly to the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022. He also reassured the public that the collation of results from polling units and wards is currently in progress, with results being successfully uploaded for review.
He voiced his apprehension regarding a recent incident where threats were made against INEC’s office in Okpoba Okha Local Government Area, resulting in a stampede that left one official injured. Additionally, he condemned the protests staged by political figures at INEC’s state headquarters, labeling these actions as unwarranted and intolerable.
“We are similarly disturbed by the overnight presence and demonstrations by some political actors and their supporters at our State Head Office ahead of the commencement of the final collation. These actions are uncalled for. Nobody should disrupt the process at any stage, and no one will be allowed to benefit from lawlessness,” Haruna stated.
Haruna also emphasized that INEC has established procedures for handling complaints during the collation process, which includes the authority to review results announced under coercion. He assured that accredited party agents, observers, and media representatives would have unrestricted access to all collation centers. Furthermore, he urged security agencies to uphold their professionalism in ensuring the smooth finalization of the results.
“There is a mechanism for redressing complaints during collation, including the power to review results declared under duress. The Commission will not hesitate to invoke such powers where necessary. Accredited party agents, observers, and the media should be granted unimpeded access to all collation centres.
“The Commission calls on the security agencies to continue maintaining the same vigilance and professionalism that ensured the peaceful conduct of the election as we conclude the process,” he added.
