Map of Edo StateCoalition urges INEC, security agencies, and state governments to guarantee fairness ahead of August 16 polls
As Edo State prepares for the August 16, 2025, bye-elections in the Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Constituency, a coalition of observer groups has issued a strong call for transparency, credibility, and strict adherence to electoral laws, warning against any form of manipulation that could undermine the process.
In a statement signed by its leader, Simon Diogu, the Coalition of Observer Groups in Nigeria urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to address lingering concerns arising from the September 2024 governorship election in the state, which, according to the group, had left a lingering trust deficit in the electoral system. The coalition stressed that the upcoming polls present a crucial opportunity for INEC to restore public confidence through open, verifiable, and accountable collation procedures. “INEC has both a legal and moral responsibility to ensure that the will of the people is respected,” the statement read. “Measures must be put in place to prevent any practices that could cast doubt on the integrity of the process.”
The coalition also appealed to security agencies, particularly the police, to maintain neutrality and professionalism in their operations. It urged them to ensure that all political parties and accredited agents have lawful access to collation centres, while safeguarding a peaceful and non-intimidating environment for voters and officials alike. “The police must ensure that the atmosphere remains calm, secure, and free from harassment,” the group emphasized, adding that any perception of bias could further erode public trust in the elections.
Addressing the role of the state government, the coalition called for adequate security measures to protect voters, officials, and other stakeholders throughout the electoral period. It also reminded the governor, whose home constituency falls within the Edo Central Senatorial District of his responsibility to promote peace, fairness, and a level playing field during the exercise. “These elections are a test of leadership,” the coalition noted. “We expect the governor to demonstrate commitment to a democratic process that reassures all stakeholders of the government’s impartiality.”
The statement concluded by underscoring that both Nigerians and the international community will be closely monitoring the conduct of the August 16 by-elections, which it described as a critical test of INEC’s credibility and Nigeria’s democratic maturity.
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