Despite Assuming Office Illegally, Tinubu Calls for Democratic Process in Edo Election

President Bola Tinubu, who “won” the 2023 presidential election in a controversially contested manner and with a low vote of confidence, has urged candidates and political parties in the Edo gubernatorial election slated for Saturday, September 21, 2024, to respect the democratic process.

Tinubu’s appeal was contained in a statement released on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy.

He [Tinubu] believes in the voters’ ability to make informed decisions about their future leaders,” the statement reads.

“President Tinubu emphasises that democracy thrives on civility, tolerance, patience, and respect for the rules of the game,” the statement added.

“He notes that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has committed to conducting a free and fair election and urges all stakeholders to work together to ensure a successful and peaceful process.

“The President commends the governorship candidates and political parties for their campaigns, which have focused on issues that matter most to the people of Edo State, including improving livelihoods, promoting economic growth, and contributing to national development.”

Meanwhile, in a 2023 Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Nigeria by the United States Department of State, the report highlighted various irregularities and challenges in the last presidential election, which brought Tinubu to office as President.

These included the marginalisation of voters based on ethnicity, violence and compromise by the justice system and the electoral body, INEC.

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Mayowa Durosinmi

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M. Durosinmi is a West Africa Weekly investigative reporter covering Politics, Human Rights, Health, and Security in West Africa and the Sahel Region

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