The All Progressives Congress (APC) has publicly criticized a report from the civil society organization Yiaga Africa regarding the recent governorship election in Edo State. This response comes just a day after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially declared Monday Okpebholo as the winner of the September 21 election.
In its report, Yiaga Africa stated that the election did not meet integrity standards and alleged that the process was manipulated. The organization claimed that various irregularities undermined the fairness of the election, prompting the APC to respond strongly to these accusations.
APC spokesman Felix Morka expressed his concerns, arguing that claiming the election results were manipulated without providing solid evidence is detrimental to the integrity of the electoral process. “Alleging manipulation without hard facts and figures is a disservice to the process,” Morka stated. He emphasized that such claims could undermine public confidence in the electoral system.
Morka stressed that INEC is the sole official authority responsible for conducting elections and declaring their results. He urged Yiaga Africa to refrain from acting as if it has the authority to declare election outcomes. “Yiaga Africa’s report is flawed, full of methodological issues, biased observations, and inaccuracies, which raise doubts about its credibility,” he asserted.
Morka also pointed out that election observer missions, including Yiaga Africa, do not have the authority to manage elections or declare results. Such actions would violate the Electoral Act and the Constitution of Nigeria. “While these organizations are allowed to share their observations with INEC and the public, they do not have the right to challenge results announced by INEC,” he explained.
The APC spokesman also highlighted that the election results reflect a broader sentiment among the electorate, indicating a rejection of the “bad governance” associated with the administration of outgoing governor Godwin Obaseki. He argued that the results demonstrate the people’s desire for change and a move away from previous governance issues.
The party’s stance underscores its commitment to supporting INEC’s authority and the legitimacy of the electoral process. Morka’s comments serve as a call to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and ensure that all parties respect the established electoral framework.
As the political landscape in Edo State continues to evolve, the APC’s strong defense of the election results signals its readiness to confront any challenges to its legitimacy. The party aims to reassure voters of the electoral process’s validity while also positioning itself as a credible alternative to the outgoing administration.
With tensions remaining high, the APC is preparing to address any further criticisms while advocating for stability and good governance in the state.
