A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Edo, led by Kennedy Odion, has withdrawn from Saturday’s local government election, citing concerns over the credibility and independence of the electoral process.

Osagiede Osaze, publicity secretary of the faction, stated on Thursday in Benin that his group had particular reservations about the election timetable.

“We have also demanded that the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) should demonstrate full independence in the conduct of the exercise,” he added.

He said the concerns were raised during an inter-party advisory council meeting with EDSIEC chairman, Jonathan Aifuobhokhan, where political parties discussed preparations for the election.

According to him, the faction informed the commission that the timetable released for the election would not provide sufficient time for parties to prepare in line with electoral guidelines.

Mr Osaze said the party also requested assurances that the election would be conducted transparently and fairly, with all participating political parties given a level playing field.

He said the faction’s chairman, Mr Odion, opted to keep the group out of the exercise because he was not convinced it would provide equal opportunity for all parties.

“There is no point participating in an election whose result has already been determined before the exercise is conducted,” Mr Osaze said.

He, however, clarified that the decision was limited to the local government election and would not affect the party’s participation in subsequent elections, including the governorship and other elections in 2027.

Mr Osaze reaffirmed that the ADC was committed to democratic participation, adding that the withdrawal was intended to draw attention to the need for credible elections.

He said the faction expected EDSIEC to ensure the proper deployment of election materials, the transparent conduct of voting, the credible collation of results, and the fair declaration of winners.

The local government election is scheduled to be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026.

Efforts to speak with the EDSIEC chairman proved abortive, but an official of the commission stated that the election would go on, adding that fears of possible unwholesome practices were unfounded.

The official, who craved anonymity, advised all political parties to participate in the exercise and assured all of fair play. 

(NAN)