Edo State Governorship Election: Security Tightened as Police Ban Quasi-Outfits
With the Edo State governorship election looming on September 21, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has prohibited quasi-security outfits from interfering in election security. Egbetokun assured impartiality, professionalism, and vigilance to ensure a level playing field.
High-Stakes Contest
2.6 million registered voters across 18 local government areas will decide the next governor in a heated three-horse race between Asue Ighodalo (PDP), Monday Okpebholo (APC), and Olumide Akpata (LP). Edo State has witnessed 95 violence cases, including 35 electoral incidents, since January.
Police Assurance
Deputy Inspector General Frank Mba reinforced Egbetokun’s statement, citing the Electoral Act’s prohibition on vigilante participation. Quasi-security officers found on duty will be arrested. The police committed to peaceful outcomes.
Voter Encouragement
Samson Itodo urged voters to choose candidates addressing security, political, and social issues.
Three Big Tests
- Resilience: Will voters defy violence or rainfall?
- Impartiality: Will security agencies remain neutral?
- Integrity: Will election materials be deployed promptly?
The election’s competitiveness and security concerns make these tests crucial.
Key Points:
- Quasi-security outfits banned
- Police maintain impartiality and professionalism
- 2.6 million registered voters decide next governor
- Three-horse race between PDP, APC, and LP
- Police assure peaceful outcomes
- Voters urged to choose problem-solving candidates
