Ahead of the upcoming National Assembly bye-elections, the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has demanded the immediate removal of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Anugbum Onuaha.
The call was made by Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, during a press briefing on Tuesday in Benin City.
Aziegbemi alleged that the REC compromised his position during the last governorship election, undermining public trust in his neutrality.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the bye-elections for August 16 to fill the vacant Edo Central Senatorial seat and the Ovia Federal Constituency seat, previously held by Sen. Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa.
Aziegbemi stated that Dr. Onuaha’s continued presence threatens the credibility and fairness of the upcoming polls, accusing him of playing a questionable role in the previous elections, which cast doubt on the integrity of the entire process.
He called on INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, to act swiftly by redeploying the REC and restoring confidence in the electoral process.
The PDP also demanded the removal of several Electoral Officers (EOs) who oversaw the 2024 gubernatorial election in specific local government areas.
“We insist that the EOs who served in Oredo, Ikpoba-Okha, Egor, Etsako West, Etsako East, and Akoko Edo should not be involved in the bye-elections. Their role in the irregularities that marred the last governorship poll makes their continued participation unacceptable,” Aziegbemi said.
He reaffirmed the PDP’s commitment to credible elections under the “One Man, One Vote” principle, warning against any attempt to rig or manipulate outcomes. He urged INEC and security agencies to ensure transparent conduct.
Commenting on recent defections from the party, Aziegbemi wished the defectors well, expressing confidence in the PDP’s grassroots support and resilience.
He emphasized that political shifts are part of natural political dynamics and assured supporters that balance and justice would prevail.
Urging voters to remain alert and participate actively, Aziegbemi called on the electorate to support PDP candidates who will deliver democratic dividends.
He expressed gratitude to the public and reiterated the party’s dedication to protecting democracy in Edo and beyond.
On the PDP’s readiness for the bye-elections, Aziegbemi declared confidence in the party’s chances of victory.
“In line with our constitution and under the direction of the National Working Committee, we held a transparent, inclusive, and credible process of screening, congress, and primaries,” he said.
Prince Joe Okojie emerged as the PDP candidate for Edo Central Senatorial District, while Johnny Ikponmwosa Aikpitanyi clinched the ticket for Ovia Federal Constituency.
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