NBA commends INEC for peaceful conduct of Edo guber, condemns vote buying

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the conduct of the Edo governorship election. 

On September 22, INEC declared Monday Okpebholo, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the election.

Okpebholo polled 291,667 votes to defeat his closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who got 247,274 votes.

The NBA, in a report from its Election Working Group (NBA-EWG), said the poll was conducted orderly. 

The report, which was signed by Bolatumi Animashaun, NBA-EWG team lead; and Mobolaji Ojibara, general secretary; said Afam Osigwe, NBA president, deployed representatives from five branches in Edo as observers for the election.

“The Nigerian Bar Association Election Working Group (NBA-EWG) observed that the 2024 Edo state governorship election was generally orderly,” the report stated.

The association also commended security agencies for demonstrating “a high level of professionalism” throughout the election. 

They also commended voters who showed resilience despite inclement weather.

“Despite a heavy downpour of rain during the election, these individuals remained resilient and waited patiently to exercise their civic duty,” the NBA said.

“The turnout of physically challenged voters was particularly commendable, as they were given priority treatment at the polling stations, ensuring they could vote with ease.”

However, NBA-EWG expressed concerns over low voter turnout, vote buying, and logistics challenges.

“The low voter turnout, influence of money, and delays in the distribution of election materials were notable concerns,” the association said.

“However, the conduct of voters, election officials, and security personnel was commendable, contributing to a largely peaceful election process.”

In its recommendations, the group urged INEC to “prioritize the timely deployment of election materials and personnel to avoid delays and ensure that all polling units are equipped to begin the voting process on time”.

“There is a need for intensified voter education campaigns aimed at restoring public trust in the electoral process and encouraging greater voter participation, especially among women and youth,” the report stated.

“Stronger measures must be implemented to prevent political parties from using money to influence voters. This includes stricter monitoring at polling units and more transparent processes to safeguard the integrity of the electoral system.”