Edo State INEC Headquarters Ambushed, 300 Thugs Cart Away Materials

Reports are emerging of a disturbing incident in Edo State, Nigeria - over 300 armed thugs allegedly affiliated with the All Progressives Congress (APC) stormed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Oredo, making off with sensitive election materials . This daring ambush occurred just minutes after the election materials arrived from Benin City. Eyewitnesses describe the scene as chaotic, with the thugs overpowering security agents and INEC officials at gunpoint .

The election, scheduled for September 21, 2024, is highly contested, with 17 candidates vying for the top position . The APC's candidate, Monday Okpebholo, a senator representing the Edo Central senatorial district, is running alongside Idahosa Dennis .

Key Concerns:

- Election Security: The attack on INEC's office raises concerns about the safety of electoral materials and personnel.

- Voter Disenfranchisement: The stolen materials may lead to disruptions in voting processes, potentially disenfranchising voters.

- Election Integrity: The incident undermines trust in the electoral process, sparking fears of manipulation.

The stolen materials include ballot papers, result sheets, and voter registers, sparking widespread fear of voter disenfranchisement and election manipulation . This incident adds to the growing tension in Edo State ahead of the governorship election, with concerns about violence and thuggery escalating.

Edo State Election Background

The election is a highly contested one, with three major political parties vying for power. The incumbent governor, Godwin Obaseki, is completing his second term, and the APC and PDP are locked in a fierce battle . There have been reports of violence, intimidation, and arrests, with both parties trading accusations .

Calls for Neutrality and Peace

Stakeholders, including civil society organizations and political analysts, are urging security agencies and INEC to maintain neutrality and ensure a peaceful election . The Nigeria Police Force has been accused of bias, with some calling for the redeployment of the Edo State Commissioner of Police .

The situation in Edo State remains volatile, with many fearing a bloody election. Citizens are being encouraged to come out and vote, while also defending their rights .