APC condemns Fintiri’s declaration of Edo gubernatorial election result

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a strong denunciation of Governor Umaru Fintiri’s recent press conference, in which he illegally announced what he claimed were the results of the Edo State gubernatorial election held on September 21, 2024.

According to APC, the announcement has been branded as a blatant violation of electoral law and an attempt to disrupt the democratic process.

In a statement released today by its spokesperson, Felix Morka, the APC described Fintiri’s actions as a display of “utter desperation and mindless impunity.” The party asserted that Fintiri has no legal authority to collate or announce election results, emphasizing that such powers are exclusively reserved for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under the Electoral Act of 2022.

“This unprecedented illegality is calculated to cause unrest in Edo State, disrupt the peaceful conclusion of the election process, and undermine the lawful authority of INEC,” the statement read. The APC further called on law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant to ensure peace and security during this critical period.

” The press statement also referenced a troubling incident involving Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, who reportedly led a disruptive invasion of INEC’s premises in Benin City. This action, the APC noted, followed protests from party leaders and resulted in Obaseki withdrawing under public pressure.

“The APC highlighted its disappointment in Fintiri, who, as a beneficiary of the electoral process, is seen as recklessly undermining the very system that brought him to power. “By seeking to usurp the statutory power of INEC, Governor Fintiri engaged in an unmistakable and egregious violation of the law,” the statement declared.

“The APC categorically labeled the results announced by Fintiri as “bogus, fake, and contrived by devious imagination,” urging the Edo electorate and the general public to disregard the unlawful announcement.

“In conclusion, the APC reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and called on all stakeholders to respect the electoral process, urging a collective effort to maintain the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.