The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially revealed the candidates for the upcoming governorship election in Edo State, scheduled for 21 September.
INEC’s disclosure came on Saturday when the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Edo, Anugbum Onuoha, showcased the list of the 17 political parties and their governorship candidates.
The comprehensive list, now accessible on the notice boards of INEC’s Edo office and across all its offices in the 18 local government areas of the state, includes notable names such as Uwaifo Osaro of the Action Alliance (AA) and Aner Abdullai Aliu from the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Other candidates feature Azena Azemhe Friday of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Osifo Isiah for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and candidates from various parties including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with Ighodalo Asuerinme, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) represented by Okpebholo Monday.
In a move to ensure transparency and enable public scrutiny, INEC also plans to publish the personal particulars of each candidate and their deputies.
This includes their Form EC9, academic credentials, and other relevant documents, which will be displayed at both the State Headquarters and in local government offices throughout Edo State.
Sam Olumekun, a national commissioner and chairman of the information and voter education committee at INEC, highlighted the importance of this process.
He encouraged Nigerians to examine these documents carefully and noted that any discrepancies or false information could be challenged in a Federal High Court, as per the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022. This step underscores INEC’s commitment to a transparent and fair electoral process, inviting public participation in safeguarding the integrity of the upcoming election.