The PDP Youth Alliance for Good Governance (PYGG) has raised alarms about an alleged plot to rig the upcoming Edo State governorship election using ‘federal might.’
The group expressed serious concerns that federal resources and influence are being mobilized to manipulate the election in favour of certain candidates.
Addressing the press on Monday in Abuja, the PYGG vowed to resist any attempt to undermine the will of the Edo people, warning that such actions could lead to unrest.
The coordinator of the group, Godwin History, revealed that there is mounting pressure on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to manipulate the electoral process, stressing that any compromise of the election’s integrity would be met with fierce resistance.
His words: ”We have it on good authority that there is mounting pressure on INEC to manipulate the electoral process and ensure that the votes of the Edo people do not count.
”Let us be clear: any attempt by INEC to compromise the integrity of the upcoming election will be met with fierce resistance.
”The people of Edo State are fully aware of their rights and will not tolerate any form of electoral malpractice. We are watching closely, and we will hold INEC accountable for the conduct of this election.
”Any action that undermines the democratic process disenfranchises the electorate, or casts doubt on the credibility of the results will have grave consequences.
”INEC must understand that it is entrusted with the sacred duty of upholding democracy, and any deviation from this responsibility will not only damage its credibility but also plunge the state into turmoil.
”The eyes of the nation and the international community are on Edo State, and we demand nothing short of a free, fair, and transparent election.”
The group emphasized that the people of Edo State are fully aware of their rights and will not tolerate any form of electoral malpractice.
They warned INEC that any action undermining the democratic process, disenfranchising voters, or casting doubt on the election’s credibility would have serious consequences.
The PYGG also reminded the Nigeria Police Force and INEC that the rights to freedom of expression, association, and assembly are enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and must be upheld.
They demanded the immediate release of those detained or that they be charged with recognizable offences according to the law.
The group condemned the use of state machinery to oppress political opposition as unconstitutional and a violation of international human rights standards.
They also encouraged the public to remain vigilant and steadfast in defending their democratic rights.
