Toba Owojaiye reporting
Benin City, Edo State – In an open letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Hon. Engr. Clement Asuelimhen, the Chairman of Igueben Local Government Area (LGA), has raised concerns over the integrity of the upcoming Edo State gubernatorial election. His message is clear: Nigeria’s democracy is at a crossroads, and the actions taken during this election will either strengthen or erode the public’s trust in the democratic process.
Truth Live News gathered that Hon. Asuelimhen, who is both a concerned citizen and a representative of the government closest to the people, emphasized the critical importance of free, fair, and credible elections. He expressed his apprehension about potential attempts to manipulate the outcome in favor of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, citing “glaring signs and allegations” that suggest interference.
“As a leader who has consistently championed the cause of democracy, it is imperative that you resist any temptation to influence the outcome of the Edo State gubernatorial election,” Asuelimhen stated, directly appealing to President Tinubu’s commitment to democratic principles. He warned that any deviation from fairness would not only betray these principles but also risk eroding public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
In his letter, Asuelimhen also highlighted the presidency’s contested mandate, pointing out that Tinubu was elected with only 36.6% of the vote, a figure that remains questionable to many Nigerians. This, he argued, makes it even more crucial for the Tinubu administration to ensure fairness and integrity in all electoral processes, starting with the forthcoming election in Edo State.
Moreover, Asuelimhen brought attention to the candidacy of Barr. Asue Ighodalo, the PDP gubernatorial candidate, who he described as a distinguished legal luminary and corporate leader with a longstanding relationship with Tinubu. He criticized what he perceives as efforts to undermine Ighodalo’s candidacy through “flimsy court judgments” and other means, including interference in the PDP’s internal affairs and the surveillance of its leaders.
“The people of Edo State, like all Nigerians, deserve to choose their leaders in an environment free of coercion and manipulation,” Asuelimhen asserted, underscoring the potential consequences of any electoral misconduct. He warned that any attempts to disqualify Ighodalo could lead to widespread unrest and anger, jeopardizing the peace and stability of the state.
Hon. Asuelimhen’s letter is not just a call to action but a reminder of the weight of responsibility that lies with President Tinubu. “Your legacy will be defined by your commitment to upholding democratic values,” he concluded, urging the president to ensure that the will of the people is respected and upheld in Edo State, setting a positive precedent for future elections across Nigeria.
As the gubernatorial election approaches, all eyes are on the federal government and its handling of this pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.