Outcome of Edo election shows Nigeria’s democracy maturing, says Abbas

Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house of representatives, says the outcome of the Edo governorship election is proof that the nation’s democracy is “maturing”.

Abbas spoke on the floor of the lower legislative chamber on Wednesday while welcoming his colleagues from their recess.

On Sunday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the Edo governorship election.

The electoral body said Okpebholo secured 291,667 votes to defeat his closest challenger, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who got 247,274 votes.

Olumide Akpata, candidate of the Labour Party (LP), came a distant third with 22,763 votes.

The PDP and LP have rejected the outcome of the election.

Abbas commended security agencies for maintaining peace during the election, saying the outcome of the poll indicates that Nigeria’s democracy is steadily advancing.

“Since our last session, Nigeria has witnessed major political, economic, and security developments. One of the most significant political events was the Edo state governorship election,” Abbas said.

“Despite some tensions, it was conducted peacefully, a testament to the growing maturity of our democracy. We also appreciate the security personnel who ensured peace throughout the process.”

ECONOMY

Speaking on the economy, Abbas said Nigeria has demonstrated resilience and potential for recovery despite facing inflationary pressures and a high cost of living.

He said the 3.19% GDP growth in the second quarter of 2024 is commendable.

The speaker said while unemployment and currency depreciation remain concerns, international organisations like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have acknowledged Nigeria’s efforts to diversify the economy and improve fiscal stability, signalling optimism for sustainable growth in the coming years.

The lawmaker said the economic challenges facing the nation require urgent legislative action, and the house is committed to passing laws that drive recovery, attract investments, create jobs, and provide immediate relief through targeted social welfare programmes.

The legislator commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the economic stabilisation bills which offer tax relief for businesses generating employment, personal income relief for workers, and which suspends burdensome taxes on small businesses and vulnerable groups.

He said the house is “fully prepared” to receive the economic bills and expedite their passage to ensure timely implementation and economic stability.

SECURITY

Abbas said security challenges remain a significant concern, especially in the north, but said substantial progress has been made in combatting insurgency, with military operations successfully neutralising several terrorists and bandit kingpins.

“These security gains, alongside increased collaboration with neighbouring countries and improved intelligence sharing, demonstrate the government’s commitment to restoring peace,” he said.

“While challenges persist, these efforts are gradually contributing to a safer environment for all Nigerians.

“Honourable colleagues, as legislators, we are key architects in shaping Nigeria’s future.

“Security remains a top priority for this house. The safety and well-being of every Nigerian are non-negotiable. We will continue collaborating with the executive and relevant agencies to combat insecurity in all its forms.”

Abbas said the green chamber will hold a security summit before the end of the year to address Nigeria’s urgent security challenges.

The summit will bring together key stakeholders, including the executive, security agencies, policy experts, and civil society organisations, the speaker added.