The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) demanded the arrest and prosecution of INEC officer Obozuwa Josephine for falsifying election results. PDP claims Josephine inflated the vote count during the Edo gubernatorial election to favour the All Progressives Congress (APC). The alleged manipulation occurred at Osholo Primary School Polling Unit in Etsako East Local Government Area. PDP insists this act undermines the election’s credibility and seeks immediate legal action.
PDP Alleges Inflation of Votes for APC
The PDP claims 213 voters were accredited, but Josephine allegedly recorded 352 votes for the APC, totalling 406. They described it as clear vote manipulation and fraud. The PDP accuses the INEC officer of deliberately inflating votes for the APC. This action, they insist, compromises the integrity of the election process.
Comparison to Past Election Fraud
In a press statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the PDP likened this case to a previous incident involving a former Resident Electoral Commissioner in Adamawa State, where electoral fraud led to violent protests. The PDP warned that Josephine’s actions could provoke similar unrest if not addressed. The party stressed that her behaviour was a betrayal of public trust and a crime against the state.
PDP Demands Justice and Cancellation of Results
The PDP urged INEC to arrest and prosecute Josephine and cancel results from the affected polling unit. They demanded INEC take decisive action to prevent similar vote manipulation in other areas. The PDP insists this is necessary to safeguard the election’s integrity. They called for immediate measures to ensure transparency in the process. PDP leaders insist that this incident is one of many examples of electoral fraud in the Edo election.
INEC Acknowledges Allegations, Promises Investigation
INEC has responded to the PDP’s allegations by acknowledging the reports of vote manipulation. In a brief statement on X, INEC confirmed that it is aware of the accusations and will investigate the matter thoroughly. The electoral body also reiterated its commitment to conducting a transparent and credible election in Edo State.
Edo Election Marred by Delays and Controversies
INEC officials arrived late at multiple polling units, forcing the electoral body to extend voting time in Edo’s gubernatorial election. Accusations of vote buying and manipulation further complicated the process. Delays in vote collation have sparked concerns over the election’s fairness. These controversies have cast doubt on the integrity of the entire election.
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