Edo PDP Blows Hot, Calls For Immediate Removal Of INEC Commissioner

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has demanded the immediate removal of Dr. Anugbum Onuaha, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), accusing him of compromising the integrity of the previous governorship election in the state.

This call was made by the Chairman of the PDP Caretaker Committee in Edo, Anthony Aziegbemi, during a press briefing held on Tuesday in Benin City.

“With the upcoming National Assembly bye-elections, Dr. Onuaha’s continued role as REC threatens the credibility and fairness of the electoral process,” Aziegbemi stated.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled bye-elections for August 16 in the Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Constituency to fill vacant seats formerly held by Senator Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa.

Aziegbemi alleged that during the 2024 governorship election, the REC’s actions eroded public trust and compromised the process. He insisted that removing Onuaha was necessary to restore voter confidence ahead of the bye-elections.

In addition to the REC’s dismissal, Aziegbemi called for certain Electoral Officers to be excluded from the upcoming polls.

“We also demand that the Electoral Officers who served in Oredo, Ikpoba-Okha, Egor, Etsako West, Etsako East, and Akoko Edo during the last gubernatorial election be barred from participating in the bye-elections. Their involvement in the previous irregularities renders them unfit for duty,” he said.

Reaffirming the PDP’s commitment to its “One Man, One Vote” principle, Aziegbemi urged INEC and security agencies to ensure transparency and fairness in the electoral process.

“We are dedicated to conducting free and fair elections and will not tolerate any manipulation. We encourage voters to remain alert and actively support PDP candidates who are capable of delivering genuine democratic benefits,” he added.

Despite recent defections, Aziegbemi expressed confidence in the PDP’s strength at the grassroots level and in its ability to win the forthcoming elections.

“In accordance with our party’s constitution and under the supervision of the National Working Committee, we held transparent screenings, congresses, and primaries to select our candidates,” he explained.

Prince Joe Okojie emerged as the PDP flagbearer for Edo Central Senatorial District, while Johnny Ikponmwosa Aikpitanyi was selected to contest the Ovia Federal Constituency seat.