Governor Obaseki Urges Calm Following Disputed Edo Governorship Election Results
Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has called for calm following the announcement of the September 21 governorship election results by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). On Sunday, September 22, INEC declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner, securing 291,667 votes, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, received 247,274 votes. Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata placed third with 22,761 votes.
In a statement, Obaseki criticized the election for being marred by a disregard for due process and the rule of law. He encouraged those dissatisfied with the outcome to seek legal remedies, emphasizing the importance of peace and discouraging violence.
He stated: “The essence of democracy is empowering the people to choose their leaders. When this right is undermined, it becomes a tragedy and a mockery of democracy. While many Edo citizens are understandably disheartened by the outcome, I urge them to remain peaceful and trust in the justice system to address these grievances.”
Obaseki reiterated his government’s commitment to ensuring the security and well-being of Edo residents while calling for lawful responses to the election’s results.
