EDSIEC INTENSIFIES PREPAPARATIONS FOR 2026 LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS, MEETS STAKEHOLDERS

 

The Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) on Wednesday, April 1, convened a stakeholders’ meeting at its headquarters on Airport Road in Benin City as preparations intensify for the July 11, 2026 Local Government Elections.

Chairman of the Commission, Hon. Jonathan Aifuobhokhan, in his address, underscored the importance of elections in sustaining democracy, noting that the credibility of the process depends on the collective responsibility of all stakeholders. He emphasized that beyond the electoral body, political parties, security agencies, community leaders, civil society organizations, the media, and the electorate must work together to ensure a peaceful and transparent exercise.

Reaffirming EDSIEC’s commitment to its constitutional mandate, Aifuobhokhan disclosed that the Commission is putting critical structures in place to guarantee fairness for all contestants. According to him, efforts are being intensified to build staff capacity, strengthen logistics, and adopt global best practices that will enhance efficiency and integrity throughout the electoral process.

He urged political parties and their candidates to conduct issue-based campaigns in a peaceful manner, stressing the need to respect the rule of law. He cautioned against the spread of misinformation, inflammatory statements, and any form of violence that could undermine the credibility of the elections.

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The EDSIEC Chairman also called on religious leaders and traditional rulers to leverage their influence in fostering peace and unity, encouraging them to guide their followers towards responsible and non-violent participation.

 

Commending security agencies for their continued professionalism, he charged them to remain neutral and vigilant in maintaining law and order before, during, and after the elections.

He further highlighted the vital roles of civil society organizations and the media, describing them as key partners in promoting transparency, accountability, and voter education. He urged them to carry out their duties with fairness, accuracy, and a strong sense of national responsibility.

Addressing the electorate, Aifuobhokhan encouraged all eligible voters in Edo State to come out peacefully on election day and exercise their civic rights without fear or intimidation.

The stakeholders’ meeting brought together representatives of traditional institutions, religious groups, security agencies, the media, civil society organizations, and political parties, including Accord, ZLP, AAC, APM, ADP, AA, PRP, APC, NRM, LP, APP, YPP, and PP.