The Edo Governorship Election: A Closer Look into Alleged Results Manipulation
By Gabriel Ewepu
The recent Edo governorship election, which saw Senator Monday Okpebolo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has sparked controversy. While the ruling party celebrates its victory, opposition parties and observers have raised concerns about the integrity of the election process. Here is an in-depth analysis of how the results were allegedly manipulated during collation.
Introduction
On September 21, 2024, Yiaga Africa deployed observers to monitor the Edo State governorship election using the Process and Results Verification for Transparency (PRVT) methodology. Their observations revealed inconsistencies in the election results, particularly during the collation process.
Inconsistencies
Based on reports from sampled polling units, Yiaga Africa detected discrepancies between the official results announced by INEC and their PRVT estimates. These disparities suggest possible manipulation of results during collation, undermining the credibility of the election outcome.
Recommendations
- Investigate and prosecute officials involved in results manipulation.
- INEC should clarify inconsistencies in results from specific LGAs.
- Integrate electronic transmission of results into the electoral legal framework.
- Strengthen security measures to prevent disruptions during the collation process.
Weaknesses
- Call for comprehensive electoral reforms to enhance transparency and accountability.
- Empower civil society organizations and international observers to monitor elections effectively.
- Adopt advanced electoral technologies to minimize fraud.
- Ensure impartial deployment of security personnel to maintain electoral integrity.
- Uphold the judiciary’s role in delivering swift and fair verdicts on electoral disputes.
As Nigeria grapples with the aftermath of the Edo election, the need for robust electoral reforms and a commitment to upholding democratic principles is more critical than ever.