Gov Fintiri Condemns ‘Shameful’ Edo Election, Accuses APC of Undermining Democracy

Governor Ahmadu Umar Fintiri of Adamawa State has expressed deep concern over the conduct of the recent Edo gubernatorial election, describing it as a “shameful” affront to Nigeria’s democracy.

In a statement made on his verified X page on Sunday, Fintiri lambasted the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for allegedly compromising the election process and resorting to intimidation tactics.

“I weep for Nigeria’s democracy after witnessing the shameful Edo gubernatorial poll,” the governor stated, accusing APC of desperate efforts to deflect from the real issues by falsely claiming he announced election results.

“I merely shared results from INEC’s Irev portal, as collated by INEC from the various Local Government Areas,” he clarified.

Fintiri also criticized the APC’s national chairman for arriving in Edo on election day via a private jet, in defiance of movement restrictions, and accused the party’s governors of using armoured escorts to intimidate voters.

“This blatant disregard for democratic norms is the real brigandage,” Fintiri said, adding that Nigerians are outraged by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for allegedly compromising and favouring APC.

He highlighted reports of vote-buying, disruption of collation processes, and suspicious results, including more votes than accredited voters, as evidence that trust in the electoral process has been severely undermined.

“Democracy indeed is under attack,” the governor warned, calling on Nigerians to condemn what he termed the “rape of democracy” and to demand accountability from those responsible.

“The world is watching, and Nigeria deserves better,” he concluded.

Governor Fintiri’s strong statement has further fueled the ongoing debate about the integrity of the Edo gubernatorial election, sparking calls for urgent electoral reforms.

Edo Election: Oshiomhole dismisses allegation of vote-buying against APC

Former Governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomole on Saturday dismissed the allegation that the All Progressives Congress (APC) was involved in vote buying in the ongoing governorship election in the state.

Oshiomhole stated this while speaking with newsmen shortly after casting his vote at Iyamho, Ward 10 Unit 01 in Estako West Local Government Area of Edo.

“It is laughable when I hear this kind of allegation. You all have been monitoring the process, have you seen where they are sharing money?

“People turned out in large numbers to vote for us because they want good government.

“During our campaign, people came out to see me not because I wanted to give them something, but because of what I have done for them while I was in the office as the governor,” he said.

The former governor who is also the senator representing Edo North Senatorial District of the state, said he had not received any report of violence from anywhere across the state.

He expressed satisfaction over the peaceful conduct of the election across the state, while also commending the elderly ones for turning out to vote at the election.

According to him, their decision is borne out of their desire to see a better Edo for their children.

“I am very enthusiastic to see the elderly ones coming out to vote in this election.

“This shows their resolve to see their children having a better life,” he added.

Historic Turnout: Edo senior citizens flock to polls

Elderly residents of Ewohimi, Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo, flocked to polling stations on Saturday to participate in the ongoing governorship election, making history with a record turnout of senior citizens.

Many were seen walking with the aid of crutches and walking sticks, while others received assistance from family members.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the large turnout was largely driven by a strong motivation to support the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, a native of Ewohimi.

The scene was particularly heartwarming, as many elderly individuals expressed their determination to exercise their civic rights, with some having not voted in years.

Mr Honda Ikehide, the 91-year-old community head, said “I have lived long enough to know when something important is happening.

“Today, we are standing with our own.”

Similarly, Mr Wilson Bello shared, “It is a great day for us.

“Our people are united, especially our elderly, who understand the significance of this moment.

“Ewohimi has never seen this level of participation by our elderly population, and it is because we believe in the capacity and vision of our son, who is one of us.”

Bello said that the atmosphere was filled with optimism and a sense of shared purpose, as the community expressed hope for a brighter future with one of their own vying for a leadership position.

“Our turnout, in spite of the odds, is a testament to our resolve and desire for progress of Ewohimi and the state in general.

“This sentiment reflects the broader aspirations of the Esan people, who feel it’s their turn to produce the governor, given their significant contribution to Edo State,” he added.