As the Edo State 2024 governorship race heats up, political gladiators such as former NBA President Olumide Akpata (Labour), lawyer Asuerinme Ighodalo (PDP), and Senator Monday Okpebholo (APC) are gearing up for what promises to be an intense battle. With the stakes high, the competition for 2,629,025 votes has attracted national attention, including that of President Bola Tinubu and other influential political figures.
The upcoming election is set to unfold under a cloud of tension, with security concerns at the forefront. Over 35,000 police officers and an additional 8,000 security personnel have already been deployed to polling stations across the state to ensure safety and maintain order. Despite these measures, the climate of fear and violence has not gone unnoticed by both local and international observers. Governor Godwin Obaseki has repeatedly voiced concerns about potential disruptions to the election, emphasizing the need for a peaceful and credible process.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has certified 17 political parties to contest the Edo State governorship election. Among the 17 candidates, 16 are men, and 1 is a woman. The educational backgrounds of the candidates range from primary school certificate holders to lawyers and business professionals, reflecting a wide variety of experiences and skills.
Notable candidates include:
- Iyere Kennedy (Accord): A fintech entrepreneur and human rights activist.
- Tom Iseghohi (Action Alliance): Former Transcorp general manager.
- Udoh Oberaifo (AAC): A business consultant.
- Osarenren Izedonmwen (ADC): An engineer.
- Kingson Akhimie (ADP) and Senator Monday Okpebholo (APC): Politicians with previous experience in governance.
- Olumide Akpata (Labour): Former NBA president, seen as a major contender.
- Azemhe Friday Azena (NNPP): A pastor.
- Asuerinme Ighodalo (PDP): A well-known lawyer.
- Key Ndidi Patience (PRP): The only female candidate, a health professional.
Other contestants include Osifo Isaiah (APGA), Ugiagbe Sylvester (APM), and several others with diverse professional backgrounds, creating a crowded field.
INEC disclosed that Edo State has 2,629,025 registered voters. However, only 2,249,780 have so far collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), leaving 379,245 voters yet to retrieve theirs. The demographics of the registered voters show a strong youth presence, with 983,133 voters aged between 18 and 35, while the middle-aged group (36 to 49 years old) accounts for 914,806 voters. These two age brackets represent a significant portion of the electorate, suggesting that candidates who appeal to younger voters could have an advantage.
To accommodate these voters, INEC has expanded the number of polling units across Edo State. The total number of polling units now stands at 4,978, up from a previously reported 4,519. The adjustment in polling stations is aimed at easing voting access for the electorate, especially in areas where there has been population growth or logistical challenges in previous elections.
The fear of violence has prompted increased security measures, with the deployment of tens of thousands of security personnel across the state. The election will also be monitored by international organizations, which have been closely following developments in Edo State. The concern is not only about voter intimidation but also about the integrity of the electoral process amidst the tense political atmosphere.
Governor Godwin Obaseki has been vocal in expressing his concerns about the possibility of violence during the elections, especially given the presence of political heavyweights who may influence outcomes behind the scenes. The governor has called for calm and urged all parties to ensure that the election remains peaceful and democratic.
