On Thursday, the Diaspora-based group Edo Concerned Citizens Worldwide emphasized the urgent need for credible elections in Edo State, urging all stakeholders to adhere to democratic principles. The group expressed alarm over statements made by key leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), including President Bola Tinubu, during a meeting with the party’s candidate, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and former governor Adams Oshiomhole. They warned that such comments could incite unrest.
In a statement from representatives Larry Irabor and Jimoh Eronmwon, the group asserted that citizens should have the right to freely choose their next governor. They called on international organizations, including the United Nations, African Union, Economic Community of West African States, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, to take action. They urged these bodies to press APC leaders to avoid inflammatory remarks that could escalate tensions, ensure proper implementation of measures for free and fair elections, and protect the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission from manipulation.
The group also requested that the UK and allied nations reaffirm their commitment to supporting credible and inclusive elections. They noted that international observers have reported inconsistencies in electoral procedures, which raises concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Edo Concerned Citizens Worldwide highlighted that the upcoming elections are critical for the future of democracy in Africa and warned that electoral malpractice could destabilize the West African region, potentially increasing refugee flows into Europe. They concluded by stressing the importance of a level playing field that respects the will of the people of Edo State.
