- The INEC REC had previously served as a special adviser on lands to Wike when he was the governor of Rivers.
- He was briefly suspended from the state’s cabinet in 2016 before being reinstated.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has requested the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to transfer Anugbum Onuoha, the state’s resident electoral commissioner (REC), due to his close ties with Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The PDP’s request is based on Onuoha’s previous role as special adviser on lands to Wike during his tenure as Rivers State governor, which raises concerns about his impartiality.
In a letter to INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu, Edo PDP chairman Tony Aziegbemi expressed doubts about Onuoha’s ability to conduct a free and fair election, citing compromised recruitment processes for supervising presiding officers (SPOs).
Aziegbemi wrote, “We are bringing to your attention a disturbing trend that may threaten the credibility of the upcoming Edo governorship election.”
The letter highlights the close relationship between Onuoha and Wike, including their familial ties and past collaborations.
The PDP demanded Onuoha’s redeployment, citing concerns about his ability to remain impartial during the election.
Additionally, the PDP requests an investigation into the recruitment of SPOs, alleging that some were given fake identity cards.
PDP TO IGP: REDEPLOY EDO CP IMMEDIATELY – HE’S PARTISAN
The Edo PDP also demanded the immediate redeployment of Nemo Edwin-Iwo, the state’s police commissioner, due to his alleged partisanship.
Both parties have accused each other of using police to instigate violence during their campaigns.
The Nigeria Police Force recently arrested a supernumerary police officer who accused Governor Obaseki of mismanaging public funds.
The PDP alleged that the APC-controlled torture squad operates with the knowledge of the Edo police commissioner.
Umar Damagum, acting national chairman of the PDP, outlined the party’s demands, including the redeployment of the police commissioner and the release of detained PDP members.