The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has made grave allegations against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security forces, claiming they tampered with the results of the recent governorship election held last Saturday. During a press conference in Benin City on Wednesday, Olu Martins, deputy director general of the Asue-Ogie Governorship Campaign Council, stated that the PDP had established a commanding lead with 95% of the results released before the alleged manipulation occurred.

Martins claimed that the PDP had maintained a lead over the All Progressives Congress (APC) by more than 45,000 votes, expressing confidence in victory even if the remaining 5% of the results favored the APC. However, he accused the police and INEC of creating an intimidating atmosphere at the collation center, which resulted in the expulsion of PDP agents while allowing APC representatives unrestricted access.

Describing the election as not just a contest between political parties but a struggle between the PDP and security forces, Martins accused them of undermining the democratic process. He also highlighted discrepancies between the results posted on INEC’s Results Viewing Portal (IREV) and the final figures announced, raising suspicions of electoral malpractice.

Martins condemned the police’s conduct, alleging that PDP agents were barred from entering the collation center at gunpoint, while APC agents enjoyed free entry. He further accused President Bola Tinubu of fostering a one-party state, suggesting that the APC’s actions aimed to reassert control over Edo State.

The PDP is currently assessing the situation and considering legal action to challenge the election results. Martins assured supporters that the party’s leadership would announce its next steps shortly.