The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken proactive steps to challenge the results of the recent governorship election held on September 21. During a press conference in Benin, the PDP’s state chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, announced that the party successfully filed a petition with the election tribunal, narrowly meeting the deadline for such actions. This move comes amid accusations from the PDP against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for allegedly obstructing the process, which Aziegbemi claims aims to undermine the party’s right to contest the election’s outcome. The party remains determined to regain what they perceive as their “stolen mandate,” urging members and supporters to stay hopeful as they embark on this legal journey.
Aziegbemi expressed confidence in the PDP’s ability to reclaim its position, asserting that the filing of the petition signals the beginning of their fight for electoral justice. He emphasized the need for resilience despite the alleged efforts of INEC, which he accused of being biased in favor of the ruling APC. According to Aziegbemi, the delay in providing Certified True Copies of electoral materials by INEC reflects a superficial attempt to assist the APC, which he perceives as the party’s political ally. This assertion underscores the tensions between the PDP and INEC regarding the electoral process and governance in the state.
In addressing accusations against the PDP related to the alleged disruption of the inspection process of electoral materials, Aziegbemi contested that such claims were unfounded. He posed critical questions regarding the motives behind any supposed disruption, emphasizing that the party had received legal permission for the inspection. This clarification is significant as it aims to mitigate any public perception that the PDP was acting in bad faith, instead portraying them as victims of a politically charged environment.
Furthermore, Aziegbemi highlighted a troubling trend regarding the treatment of PDP members in the aftermath of the election. He claimed that a number of members had been arrested on dubious accusations, particularly linked to the murder of Inspector Akor Onuh. The chairman suggested a concerning narrative about police actions under the current Inspector General of Police, whom he insinuated is aligning with the APC. This allegation raises critical questions about the objectivity and impartiality of law enforcement in politically sensitive environments, suggesting that the PDP’s challenges extend beyond the election results themselves.
Aziegbemi’s statements point to a broader systemic issue, where political affiliations ostensibly influence the actions of institutional bodies like the police and INEC. The alleged release of individuals connected to serious crimes after substantial bail payments, such as N64 million, paints a picture of a biased justice system that seems to favor certain political conglomerates. Such dynamics highlight the precarious intersection of law enforcement, politics, and personal safety for activists within the PDP, compounding the difficulties associated with the party’s electoral grievances.
As the PDP prepares for the tribunal proceedings, the party is keen on rallying support from its base and the general populace. They seek to demonstrate a unified front against what Aziegbemi has characterized as systematic attempts to undermine their electoral legitimacy. This commitment to reclaiming their mandate, coupled with the invocation of hope and perseverance, identifies the PDP’s strategic posture amidst escalating tensions marred by accusations of bias and foul play in the electoral process. The outcome of these legal challenges will likely shape not only the political landscape of Edo State but also the broader discourse on electoral integrity and governance in Nigeria.
