According to Vanguard, The Director of Operations for Edo North of the Asue/Ogie Campaign Management Council, Hon. Jimoh Ijegbai, dismissed allegations on Tuesday suggesting that the upcoming election results would be manipulated using ‘federal might.’ Ijegbai assured that the people's choice would prevail, emphasizing the commitment to a fair and democratic electoral process.
Speaking with journalists in Benin City, Ijegbai affirmed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is actively campaigning and engaging with the electorate to secure votes for its candidate. He contrasted this approach with some members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), whom he accused of relying on the perceived influence of 'federal might.' Ijegbai expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu, known for his strong democratic principles, would not permit any electoral malpractice under his administration.
Ijegbai highlighted the enduring nature of democracy in Nigeria, recalling how Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, a former governor and current senator, won elections in Edo State despite being in opposition to the federal government. He noted that Oshiomhole has consistently championed free and fair elections, reinforcing the credibility of the electoral process. This historical context, Ijegbai suggested, should dispel fears of manipulation in the upcoming elections.
He reiterated his faith in President Tinubu's democratic commitment, pointing out Tinubu's historical role in fighting for democracy during military rule and his subsequent governance of Lagos State. Ijegbai expressed optimism that Tinubu's presidency would uphold the democratic values he has long supported, ensuring a transparent and legitimate electoral outcome in Edo North.
He said “The President Tinubu that I know, who was among those who fought for democracy, who fought the military to ensure that Nigeria regains democracy, we got it and he was a beneficiary, he was the governor of Lagos State and today fate has thrown him up as the president of Nigeria.