Adamawa Governor Ahmadu Fintiri condemned the Edo State governorship election, calling it a setback for Nigeria's democracy. Following INEC's declaration of APC's Monday Okpebholo as the winner, Fintiri criticized alleged electoral malpractices, including vote-buying and intimidation, stressing the need for accountability in the electoral process.
Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri expressed deep concern over the recent Edo State governorship election, calling the outcome a significant setback for Nigeria’s democracy. Following the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) announcement that Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged victorious, Fintiri labeled the election as shameful.
In his statement, Fintiri lamented, “I weep for Nigeria’s democracy after witnessing the shameful Edo gubernatorial poll.” He criticized the APC's tactics, which included claims that he prematurely announced results. He clarified that he only shared figures from INEC's IReV portal, reflecting what was reported by local government areas.
Fintiri also condemned the actions of the APC, particularly highlighting the arrival of the party's national chairman via private jet on election day, an act he deemed as flaunting movement restrictions. He accused APC governors of intimidating voters using armored escorts, asserting that these actions violated democratic principles.
He raised alarms over allegations of vote-buying, disruptions during the collation process, and results that exceeded the number of accredited voters, which he believes erode public trust in the electoral system. Fintiri concluded by calling for accountability and emphasized the need to protect democracy in Nigeria, stating, “Democracy indeed is under attack. The world is watching, and Nigeria deserves better.”
