LG Polls: EDSIEC Promises Transparency, Urges Stakeholders to Shun Violence
As part of preparations for the Local Government Elections scheduled for July 11, 2026, the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) has assured stakeholders that the exercise will be peaceful, transparent, and credible.
The assurance was given by the EDSIEC Chairman, Hon. Jonathan Aifuobhokhan, during a stakeholders’ engagement held on Wednesday at the Commission’s headquarters in Benin City.
In his remarks, the Chairman highlighted the critical role of elections in democracy, stressing that a successful process depends on the cooperation, participation, and trust of all stakeholders.
He reaffirmed EDSIEC’s commitment to its constitutional mandate, noting ongoing efforts to ensure a level playing field. According to him, steps are being taken to strengthen staff capacity, improve logistics, and adopt best practices.
Aifuobhokhan urged political parties and candidates to run issue-based campaigns, while condemning hate speech, misinformation, and all forms of electoral violence.
He also called on religious and traditional leaders to promote peace, while commending security agencies and urging them to remain neutral and vigilant. The contributions of civil society organisations and the media were equally acknowledged.
Appealing to voters, the Chairman encouraged eligible citizens to participate peacefully, emphasizing that their votes remain their voice in the democratic process.
The meeting was attended by representatives of traditional institutions, religious bodies, security agencies, the media, CSOs, and political parties, including Accord, ZLP, AAC, APM, ADP, AA, PRP, APC, NRM, LP, APP, YPP, and PP.
