By: Bayero Ade
Governor Monday Okpebholo’s decision to appoint Dr. Suleman Ovouehor Ikhuoria to the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) has triggered widespread criticism and concerns about electoral integrity in the state.
Dr. Ikhuoria has faced allegations of election rigging and vote manipulation, including a 2019 audio recording in which he allegedly admitted to influencing votes in favor of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Additional claims suggest that a sting operation by the Directorate of State Security (DSS) implicated him in accepting bribes to alter election results. These allegations were presented during a tribunal hearing by Hon. Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma, an APC candidate for the House of Representatives at the time.
Critics have also questioned the nomination of Jonathan Aifuobhokhan, a prominent APC member, as the chairman of EDSIEC. Many fear these appointments could undermine the credibility of future elections in the state.
Goodluck Osaretin, spokesperson for the opposition PDP, described the nominations as “a blatant attack on democracy,” accusing the governor of attempting to secure APC dominance through a compromised electoral system. “We urge members of the Edo State House of Assembly to reject these flawed appointments,” he added.
The Edo Voters’ Alliance echoed these concerns, warning that “appointing individuals with alleged questionable electoral records jeopardizes democracy in Edo and across Nigeria.”
The controversial appointments have fueled debate about the state’s electoral future and the commitment to upholding democratic principles.
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