The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has commended the conduct of the just concluded governorship election in Edo State.
NBA, in a report of its Election Working Group ((NBA-EWG) on the Edo governorship election, jointly signed by its team lead, Mrs. Bolatumi Animashaun and General Secretary, Mobolaji Ojibara, said the poll was conducted in an orderly manner.
“The Nigerian Bar Association Election Working Group (NBA-EWG) observed that the 2024 Edo State Governorship Election was generally orderly,” the report stated.
The NBA also commended the security agencies for demonstrating a high level of professionalism throughout the election.
However, it expressed concerns regarding low voter turnout and some issues that arose during the process.
“The low voter turnout, influence of money, and delays in the distribution of election materials were notable concerns.
” However, the conduct of voters, election officials, and security personnel was commendable, contributing to a largely peaceful election process,” the NBA-EWG noted.
While saying the President of NBA, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN deployed some of its National Officers and representatives of leadership of the five branches of its branches in Edo State as observers to monitor the the election, the NBA-EWG recommended various ways the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) can address observed lapses in future elections.
“The Nigerian Bar Association Election Working Group (NBA-EWG) recommends as follows : Enhance Timely Distribution of Election Materials: INEC should prioritize the timely deployment of election materials and personnel to avoid delays and ensure that all polling units are equipped to begin the voting process on time.
“Increase Voter Education and Sensitization: There is a need for intensified voter education campaigns aimed at restoring public trust in the electoral process and encouraging greater voter participation, especially among women and youth.
“Curb the Influence of Money in Elections: Stronger measures must be implemented to prevent political parties from using money to influence voters.
“This includes stricter monitoring at polling units and more transparent processes to safeguard the integrity of the electoral system.”
It commended Edo voters for coming out to exercise their franchise despite the heavy downpour on the election day.
” Despite a heavy downpour of rain during the election, these individuals remained resilient and waited patiently to exercise their civic duty.
“The turnout of physically challenged voters was particularly commendable, as they were given priority treatment at the polling stations, ensuring they could vote with ease, ” NBA said.
INEC had on Sunday declared the candidate of APC, Senator Monday Okpebholo as winner of the Edo governorship election
Okpebholo secured a total of 291,667 votes.
His closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), garnered 247,655 votes, while Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP), finished third, receiving a total of 22,763 votes. (vitalnewsngr.com)
