Opposition political parties in Nigeria have urged security agencies deployed for the Edo State governorship election to avoid intimidating voters. Their call comes amid the heavy deployment of soldiers along the state’s borders with Kogi, Delta, Ondo, and Anambra ahead of the election.

Soldiers and police officers were reportedly spotted in strategic locations across Edo, including Akpapava Road, Ring Road, and Ramat Park, raising concerns about the potential for voter intimidation.

Seventeen parties are participating in the election, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) Asue Ighodalo, and Labour Party’s (LP) Olumide Akpata leading the race.ed

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Opposition Raises Concerns

Ladipo Johnson, National Publicity Secretary of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), questioned the necessity of military involvement in the election, stating, “The military should be focused on insurgency, not election security.” He warned that the election would serve as a critical test of Nigeria’s democratic progress following the general elections.

Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, also cautioned against the militarization of the election, stating, “Our aim is a free and fair election, without unnecessary force.” Ifoh emphasized that LP’s strength lies with the people, not in state or federal muscle.

Similarly, PDP’s Deputy Publicity Secretary, Abdullahi Ibrahim, called the presence of soldiers an “aberration” in a democratic process, though he acknowledged reassurances from the military regarding their professionalism.

APC Defends Security Measures

However, the APC’s National Publicity Director, Bala Ibrahim, defended the deployment, stating, “Security preparations are essential to prevent election disruptions.” Ibrahim emphasized that the military presence is intended to provide voters with confidence and protection, not intimidation.