The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has raised serious concerns about the upcoming governorship election in Edo State.
The party has accused the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the state, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, of having a strong bias towards the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to the PDP, this perceived favoritism poses a significant threat to the fairness of the election process.
Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, led the press conference and presented the party’s claims. He asserted that there is substantial evidence indicating that Dr. Onuoha is more aligned with the APC than with impartial electoral duties.
“We have credible information that Dr. Anugbum Onuoha is an APC apologist,” Damagum declared.
“His appointment is a blatant attempt to undermine the electoral process and rig the election in favour of the APC,” he added.
The PDP also accused the APC of using rogue police operatives to harass and detain members and supporters of the party, claiming that this intimidation is part of a broader strategy to influence the election outcome.
“As we speak, 16 of our members have been arrested on spurious charges, with some transported to Abuja for detention and torture.
“This is part of a coordinated effort to scare our supporters and rig the election,” Damagum lamented.
In response to these allegations, the PDP is calling for the immediate redeployment of both the Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Nemo Edwin-Iwo, and REC Dr. Onuoha.
The party argues that these changes are necessary to preserve the credibility of the election and ensure that it is conducted in a fair and transparent manner.
The PDP also urged voters in Edo State to be vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their votes. The party emphasized its commitment to supporting the electorate in defending their democratic rights.
“The PDP salutes the courage of the people of Edo State and urges them to remain vigilant and at alert to defend democracy and defend their votes at the Saturday, September 21, 2024 Edo State Governorship election.
“Edo State people are assured that the PDP will be with them in their desire to ensure that their Will as expressed at the poll is not subverted,” the statement noted.
