PRP: Low voter turnout in Edo guber shows discontent in electoral process

The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) says the low voter turnout in the Edo state governorship election reflects a discontent with Nigeria’s electoral process.

On September 22, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared APC candidate Monday Okpebholo as winner of the election, securing 291,667 votes.

Asue Ighodalo of the PDP followed with 247,655 votes, while Akpata of LP finished third with 22,763 votes.

In a statement on Thursday, Muhammad Ishaq, PRP spokesperson, said the September 21 election was a “nightmare — exposing deep-seated problems plaguing the electoral system.”

He said INEC should be unbundled to create an electoral offences commission to prosecute the “widespread manipulation” and “disregard” for citizens’ rights.

“The PRP believes that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must be unbundled and an Electoral Offences Commission with full prosecutorial powers must be established to ensure that electoral malpractices are put to a stop,” the statement reads.

“We cannot continue to tolerate the shenanigans that characterized the Edo election, which undermine our democracy and deny citizens their right to free, fair and credible elections.

“While we commend the overall peacefulness of the election, we must also acknowledge that this peace was achieved at the cost of people’s liberties.

“The heavy security presence was a conspicuous reminder of the fear and intimidation that many citizens experienced during the elections.

“We desire a situation where elections can be conducted with minimal security presence, allowing citizens to exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation.”

“The abysmally low turnout of 20% of registered voters, out of over 2.6 million collected PVCs, is an outright indictment of the electoral system.

“It is a clear indication of widespread discontent and distrust in the efficiency of our democratic processes.”