Asue Ighodalo, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the upcoming September 21, 2024, Edo State governorship election, has raised concerns over delays in the voting process in his strongholds within the Edo Central Senatorial District. He accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of delaying the commencement of voting in areas considered to be PDP strongholds.
Ighodalo made this claim after casting his vote at Idionrio Primary School, Ward 1 Unit 3, Ewohimi, in the Esan Southeast Local Government Area, where voting began around midday due to the late arrival of INEC officials. Speaking with reporters, he expressed disappointment over the delay, but remained hopeful, stating, “Once they start, our people will vote as soon as possible.”
The PDP candidate also acknowledged rumors that INEC may have compromised in certain polling units but opted to maintain an open mind, stating, “I am hearing flickers of such activities this morning but again I want to give them the benefit of the doubt.”
INEC has responded by extending voting periods in areas where the process began late.
Edo State is one of eight Nigerian states where governorship elections are held off-season due to legal issues and court rulings. As Governor Godwin Obaseki’s term ends on November 12, 2024, 17 candidates, including Ighodalo, Monday Okpebholo (APC), and Olumide Akpata (Labour Party), are vying to succeed him.
