*Pix above(r-l): PBAT and Bayo Onanuga
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has, again, called on all stakeholders in the ongoing Edo governorship elections to conduct themselves peacefully and sportingly.
The President implores the governorship candidates, political parties, and supporters to respect the democratic process and the people’s will, in the election scheduled for today, Sept. 21.
In a statement by Mr Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser, Information and Strategy, the President said he believes in the voters’ ability to make informed decisions about their future leaders.
“President Tinubu emphasises that democracy thrives on civility, tolerance, patience, and respect for the rules of the game.
“He notes that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has committed to conducting a free and fair election and urges all stakeholders to work together to ensure a successful and peaceful process,” said the statement.
“The President commended the governorship candidates and political parties for their campaigns, which he said had focused on issues that mattered most to the people of Edo.
“He noted that the candidates pledged to improve livelihoods, promote economic growth and contribute to national development.
“He urged all citizens in the state to remain peaceful and respectful throughout the voting process, and encouraged them to resolve any disagreements amicably through the constituted authorities.
“In addition, President Tinubu expresses unwavering confidence in the professionalism and integrity of security agencies and INEC officials.
“He urges them to remain impartial and avoid any actions that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process,” said the statement.
Sixteen men and one woman are contesting for the prestigious position of governor of Edo State. While many are in the race, only three candidates have been actively campaigning.
Find below the contestants and their respective parties:
Iyere Kennedy – Accord Party (A)
Iseghohi Tom – Action Alliance (AA)
David Udoh Oberaifo – African Action Congress (AAC)
Derek Izedonmwen Osarenren – Africa Democratic Congress (ADC)
Kingston Akhimie Afeare – Action Democratic Party (ADP)
Monday Okpebholo – All Progressives Congress (APC)
Isaiah Osifo – All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)
Odaro Ugiagbe – Allied Peoples Movement (APM)
Amos Areloegbe – Action Peoples Party (APP)
Edeipo Osiariame – Boot Party (BP)
Olumide Akpata – Labour Party (LP)
Friday Azemhe Azena – New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP)
Asuerinme Ighodalo – Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
Patience Key Ndidi – Peoples Redemption Party (PRP)
Abdulai Anerua Aliu – Social Democratic Party (SDP)
Paul Okungbowa Ovbokhan – Young Progressives Party (YPP)
Akhalamhe Amiemenoghena – Zenith Labour Party (ZLP)///
