The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for the immediate removal of the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Anugbum Onuaha, ahead of the August 16 National Assembly bye-elections.
Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, made the call during a press conference held on Tuesday in Benin City, accusing the REC of compromising his neutrality during the 2024 gubernatorial election in the state.
“Dr. Onuaha’s conduct during the last governorship election led to a loss of confidence in his ability to remain impartial. His continued presence is a threat to the credibility of the upcoming bye-elections,” Aziegbemi said.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had fixed August 16 for bye-elections in Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Constituency, following the resignation of Senator Monday Okpebholo and Hon. Dennis Idahosa.
Calls for Removal of Electoral Officers
The PDP also demanded the removal of several Electoral Officers (EOs) who presided over the 2024 governorship election in the following Local Government Areas:
Oredo
Ikpoba-Okha
Egor
Etsako West
Etsako East
Akoko Edo
“Their involvement in the irregularities that marred the last election makes their participation in the bye-elections unacceptable,” Aziegbemi asserted.
He urged INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, to take swift action by redeploying both the REC and the implicated EOs to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
Commitment to Democracy
Reaffirming the party’s commitment to free, fair, and credible elections, Aziegbemi emphasized the PDP’s guiding slogan: “One Man, One Vote.”
He warned against attempts to manipulate the upcoming polls and called on INEC and security agencies to ensure transparency and fairness.
Defections and Party Strength
Responding to recent defections from the party, Aziegbemi wished the defectors well but maintained that the PDP remained strong, united, and deeply rooted at the grassroots level.
“Politics, like nature, is governed by natural laws that eventually restore balance and justice,” he said, expressing confidence in the party’s resilience.
He also urged voters to remain vigilant, participate actively, and support PDP candidates who can deliver democratic dividends.
Preparation and Confidence Ahead of Polls
Speaking on the party’s readiness for the bye-elections, Aziegbemi said the PDP had conducted transparent and inclusive primaries, in line with the party’s constitution and under the supervision of the National Working Committee.
He announced that:
Prince Joe Okojie will fly the party’s flag for Edo Central Senatorial District, and
Johnny Ikponmwosa Aikpitanyi will contest for Ovia Federal Constituency.
“We are confident in the strength of our candidates and in our chances of victory come August 16,” Aziegbemi added.
