The Edo State local government election has suffered another setback, with a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) announcing its withdrawal from Saturday’s polls over concerns about the credibility of the electoral process.
The faction, led by Kennedy Odion, said the decision followed dissatisfaction with the election timetable released by the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC), which it believes does not give political parties enough time to prepare.
Its spokesman, Osagiede Osaze, said the concerns were raised during an Inter-Party Advisory Council meeting with EDSIEC Chairman Jonathan Aifuobhokhan, where political parties reviewed preparations for the election.
He said the faction also sought assurances that the exercise would be transparent, credible and provide a level playing field for all contestants.
“There is no point participating in an election whose result has already been determined before the exercise is conducted,” Osaze said.
He clarified that the withdrawal applies only to the local government election and will not affect the party’s participation in future polls, including the 2027 governorship election. The faction also urged EDSIEC to ensure transparent voting, credible collation of results and the fair declaration of winners.
The Peoples Democratic Party has also announced its boycott of Saturday’s election.
