Guber Election: Peter Obi’s Claims Of Rigging, Unfounded, Disrespectful To Edo People

By Daniel Dafe

The administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has rejected the recent assertions made by Mr. Peter Obi regarding the integrity of the September 21 governorship election in Edo State.

A statement on Thursday signed by Owaen Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, added that “Mr. Obi’s claims, alleging that the election was not free and fair, are not only unfounded but also deeply disrespectful to the will of the Edo people, who exercised their democratic right in a peaceful and transparent manner.”

According to the statement, “the Edo State Governorship Election was conducted in accordance with the highest standards of electoral integrity, as observed by both local and international observers,” saying that “the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ensured a level playing field, and the process was widely acknowledged as credible.”

The statement said further: “Mr. Obi’s pronouncements are not supported by any credible evidence and appear to be driven by political expediency rather than a genuine concern for democratic principles. It is regrettable that a figure of his standing would choose to undermine the democratic process with such baseless allegations.”

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Edo State Government urged Mr. Obi to “retract his statements and respect the mandate freely given by the people of Edo State,” while imploring him to contribute constructively to the nation’s democratic discourse rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric.

“The peace and stability of Edo State are paramount, and Governor Monday Okpebholo will not allow anyone to jeopardize the hard-earned democratic gains made so far. The people of Edo State have spoken, and their voice must be respected,” the statement concluded.