Edo Residents Storm INEC Headquarters In Abuja, Demand Return Of “Stolen Mandate”

In a show of solidarity, hundreds of Edo State residents gathered peacefully outside the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja, protesting what they described as the theft of their democratic mandate during the recently concluded Edo State Governorship Election. The election, held on September 21, 2024, has sparked controversy, with claims that the results announced by INEC did not reflect the polling unit and ward-level tallies observed by voters and party agents.

Chanting slogans such as “Asue Ighodalo Mandate We Shall Stand!” the demonstrators demanded that INEC revisit the results and ensure that the will of the people prevails. Asue Ighodalo, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, has garnered widespread support across Edo State, and his supporters believe that the official results do not represent the true outcome of the election.

INEC officials, in response to the demonstration, assured the crowd that the commission would take a closer look at the results announced and address the concerns raised by the Edo electorate. The assurance was given as protesters urged the commission to act swiftly and decisively.

Addressing the crowd, Sir Clem Aziegbemi, a spokesperson for the demonstrators, reminded INEC of its constitutional responsibility to remain impartial and uphold the democratic process. “We are mourning in our dear state because of INEC and the police’s roles in this election,” he said. “Edo people demand that their mandate be returned, and justice be served.”

The peaceful protest drew attention to the growing discontent in Edo State, as citizens continue to call for transparency and fairness in the electoral process.

Esanradiotv Media Group reporting live from Abuja. #AsueIghodalo2024