Billy Osawaru, representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has applauded INEC for the peaceful conduct of the Edo by-elections.

Speaking to journalists in Iguobazuwa, Ovia South West Local Government, Mr Osawaru described the election process as transparent, orderly, and free from any form of disruption or irregularities.

A by-election was held in Esan Central Senatorial District to replace Monday Okpebholo, who is now the governor of the state, while another took place in Ovia Federal Constituency to fill the vacancy created by Dennis Idahosa, who is now the state’s deputy governor.

Mr Osawaru expressed gratitude to the people of Iguobazuwa for turning out in large numbers to participate actively in the exercise.

“It has been a peaceful, credible election. As you can see, everywhere is calm, voters were orderly, and even the weather has been favourable,” he said.

Mr Osawaru also commended the cooperation among political parties, noting that the atmosphere was more of a community exercise than a tense political contest.

He stated that the level of calm and transparency maintained in the process signalled a strong progression in Nigeria’s democratic and electoral systems.

Confident of his party’s victory, Mr Osawaru commended APC’s mobilisation efforts, which he said ensured strong voter participation from party loyalists across polling units.

“There is a strong APC presence here. From what I see, the party was able to galvanise members effectively to vote,” he added.

He noted that many APC supporters remained at the polling centres, patiently awaiting the final declaration of results.

Mr Osawaru reiterated his belief that the APC would emerge victorious, given the visible support and turnout from the party’s grassroots base.

(NAN)