The All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared victory in the fiercely contested Edo State gubernatorial election, despite the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) delaying the final collation of results. Tensions remain high across the state as INEC pushes the collation to 11:00 a.m., following rising unrest at the collation center.
In a video obtained by News Express, jubilant APC supporters, including close allies of Deputy Governorship Candidate Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, were seen marching through the streets, singing praises. "He is a miracle-working God!" the crowd chanted, expressing their joy and confidence in the election outcome. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as they celebrated the "youngest incoming Deputy Governor," referring to Rt. Hon. Idahosa.
Supporters also shared their optimism on social media, with messages congratulating the APC and the people of Edo State for their anticipated victory. A statement accompanying the celebratory footage read, "APC members and the Edo people celebrate with the youngest incoming Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, from INEC office Ikpoba Hill on foot into the State Capital, Benin City."
While the APC and its supporters have confidently claimed victory, the final official results are yet to be confirmed. INEC announced the postponement of the collation of results, initially scheduled for Sunday morning. This delay followed protests led by Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki and members of the PDP Campaign Council, who alleged that the results were being manipulated in favor of the APC candidate, Monday Okpebholo. The PDP insists that its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, won the election and are calling for transparency in the collation process.
Governor Obaseki, in a bold move, stormed the INEC office alongside his supporters to lodge his grievances, demanding the electoral body uphold the people's mandate. The protest added to the already tense atmosphere surrounding the collation center, where security has been heightened to prevent any outbreak of violence.
As Edo State awaits the official announcement of the election results, the political climate remains charged. Both the APC and PDP are keeping their supporters on high alert, each confident of a favorable outcome. INEC is expected to resume the collation of results later today, and all eyes are on the commission to ensure a transparent and peaceful conclusion to the election process.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds.
