Edo Election: “We’ll Defend Our Votes With Our Lives” – PDP Pledges

Edo Election: “We’ll Defend Our Votes With Our Lives” – PDP PledgesWith just seven days to the Edo State Governorship election, the national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vowed to fiercely defend the votes of its candidate against any potential rigging by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The party’s acting national chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagun, issued this warning on Saturday during the grand finale of the PDP campaign rally in Benin City. Damagun cautioned INEC against announcing election results during the night, stressing that the PDP would defend the outcome with full determination.

“We do not want midnight announcements of results. We will remain vigilant and ensure that doesn’t happen,” Damagun stated, adding, “This is not a threat, but a serious commitment—we will defend our votes with our lives if necessary.”

He also urged security agencies to maintain neutrality and provide a fair environment for all political parties. Damagun emphasized that any biased action by security personnel would be met with resistance, stating, “If you take sides, you’ll have to deal with all of us.”

Additionally, Damagun urged Nigerians to stay engaged with the upcoming election, calling it a critical test for the nation’s democracy. He warned that failure to conduct a free, fair, and credible election could lead to instability.

Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Chairman of the National Campaign Council for the Edo 2024 Governorship Election, echoed the call for a transparent process, declaring that no one would intimidate or rig the election against PDP candidate Barrister Asue Ighodalo.

Speaking after receiving the party’s flag, Ighodalo pledged to build on Governor Obaseki’s achievements and vowed to fight for victory, stating that like other PDP governors, he is prepared to face any challenges to win the election.