The Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA) yesterday declared that the Edo State governorship election was free, fair and credible, adding that  the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conformed with most of the standards.

The centre, a coalition of 51 Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) accredited observer organisations, at a press conference in Benin city, Edo State capital, said, through its convener of the centre, Dr. Gabriel Nwambu and secretary, Mr. Osaretin Omoh, that the coalition was presenting an unbiased report of findings.

The position of this coalition of observers contrasts with those of Yiaga Africa and Center for Democracy and Development (CDD) picked holes with the conduct of the election.

However, in its report on the general execution of the election, CCLCA said: “We observed the distribution of both sensitive and non-sensitive election materials from the Central Bank of Nigeria in Benin City to the Local Government offices of INEC. The subsequent distribution to various Registration Area Centres (RAC) was executed under tight security.

“We noted that the election materials were ultimately moved to the 4,518 polling units by INEC ad hoc staff, predominantly National Youth Service Corps members.

“Voting commenced between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM in most observed polling units. The delay in some areas was due primarily to heavy rainfall, with a few instances of logistical challenges noted. In certain RAC centres, electoral materials and staff were prepared for movement but lacked police escorts. Although these instances were minimal, they warrant attention.”

The (CCLCA) however observed some anomalies, “Vote buying was observed in some polling units, notably more sophisticated than in previous elections.

“An incident of concern involved military personnel denying access to accredited observers, despite proper identification.

Similarly, the centre also strongly condemned the unauthorised declaration by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa state in which the Governor declared the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was the validly elected candidate.

“We are compelled to address a severe violation that occurred post-election. The Governor of Adamawa State, Mr. Ahmadu Fintiri, held a press conference declaring the candidate of his party as the winner of the Edo State governorship election.

“This action blatantly contravene Sections 178 and 179 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and undermines the authority of INEC. Such behavior is unbecoming of a public office holder and could erode public trust in our democratic processes”, the Centre emphasized.

Part of the text of their address reads:

“We were relieved to report that the election concluded without violence, despite the inflammatory remarks made by some politicians, including the outgoing governor, who referred to the election as a “do or die” affair.

“The collation of results was conducted meticulously, adhering to the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022 Amended and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended”.

The centre therefore strongly recommended that Mr. Fintiri be held accountable for usurping the powers of INEC, and appropriate legal actions should be taken saying, he has to be prosecuted in 2027 as the immunity is lifted.

“Further investigations into the logistics failures witnessed, including the absence of police escort and delays caused by transport workers, should be conducted to ensure future elections run smoothly”, the centre pointed out.

“We acknowledge the relatively low voter turnout of 22%, largely attributable to adverse weather conditions. However, we assert that the Edo State Governorship Election of September 21, 2024, was conducted in line with the Electoral Act, 2022, and the 1999 Constitution as amended.

“We as 51 INEC Accredited observer organizations hereby unequivocally declare that this election was transparent, free, fair, and credible. Importantly, we report no loss of life on election day, which reflects positively on the overall conduct.

“We commend the Inspector General of the Nigerian Police for the professionalism exhibited by officers in the discharge of their duties, as well as INEC for overseeing a credible election. Lastly, we applaud the people of Edo State for their peaceful disposition, demonstrating their unwavering love for peace”, the Centre concluded.