Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpeholo has denounced a statement credited to the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi that the September 21, 2024, governorship election in the state was not free and fair.
Obi was in a viral video quoted to have queried the integrity of the election, stating that everybody knew who won the election.
However, in a swift reaction by Fred Itua, his chief press secretary, Governor Okpebholo described Obi’s claim as not only unfounded but also deeply disrespectful of the will of the Edo people who exercised their democratic rights in a peaceful and transparent manner in the election.
“The Edo State Governorship Election was conducted in accordance with the highest standards of electoral integrity, as observed by both local and international observers.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ensured a level-playing field, and the process was widely acknowledged as credible.
“Mr. Obi’s pronouncements are not supported by any credible evidence and appear to be driven by political expediency rather than a genuine concern for democratic principles. It is regrettable that a figure of his standing would choose to undermine the democratic process with such baseless allegations,” Itua stated.
The state government further demanded a retraction of the statements from Obi, urging him to respect the mandate freely given Senator Okpebholo by the people of Edo State.
“We implore him to contribute constructively to the nation’s democratic discourse rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric.
“The peace and stability of Edo State are paramount, and Governor Monday Okpebholo will not allow anyone to jeopardise the hard-earned democratic gains made so far. The people of Edo State have spoken, and their voice must be respected,” the statement said.
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