The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the African Democratic Congress, ADC, have withdrawn from Saturday’s local government election in Edo State, citing alleged illegality, constitutional violations, and lack of confidence in the process.
The boycott was announced Thursday, less than 48 hours to the July 11, 2026 poll.
—PDP: “Process Founded On Constitutional Violations”—
In a statement by State Chairman, Dr Tony Aziegbemi, the PDP said it would neither field candidates nor participate in the exercise.
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Aziegbemi faulted the dissolution of democratically-elected council chairmen, vice-chairmen and councillors, and their replacement with caretaker committees — which he said violates Section 7(1) of the 1999 Constitution.
He also accused the state government of dissolving the previous EDSIEC management before the expiration of its tenure, and of disobeying eight High Court judgements related to the election.
“A process founded on constitutional violations cannot produce a legitimate democratic outcome. We will not legitimise illegality,” Aziegbemi stated.
He directed PDP leaders, members and supporters statewide to shun the election, adding that the party would pursue “lawful and constitutional means to defend democracy and the rule of law.”
—ADC: “Result Already Determined”—
The ADC, through Publicity Secretary Mr Osagiede Osaze, said the party had reservations about the election timetable and EDSIEC’s independence.
Osaze said the concerns were raised at an Inter-Party Advisory Council meeting with EDSIEC Chairman, Mr Jonathan Aifuobhokhan.
The party argued the timetable did not give parties enough time to prepare and demanded assurances of transparency and a level playing field.
ADC State Chairman, Mr Kennedy Odion, opted to stay out because he was “not convinced that the exercise would provide equal opportunity for all parties.”
“There is no point participating in an election whose result has already been determined before the exercise is conducted,” Osaze said.
He clarified that the boycott applies only to the LG election and not to 2027 governorship and other elections. ADC reaffirmed its commitment to democratic participation.
EDSIEC: “Election Will Go On”
Despite the boycott, EDSIEC says preparations are at 85 per cent.
Public Relations Officer, Mr Albert Eguaoje, said 12 political parties fielded candidates for the 18 LGAs. They include: APC, Accord, APP, PRP, APGA, APM, YPP, NNPP, ADP, AAC, ZLP and AA.
He said distribution of materials began Thursday, starting with distant LGAs like Akoko-Edo, with the rest to follow Friday.
Other details:
1. Movement restriction: 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Saturday
2. Accreditation: Manual, using INEC voter register. No BVAS
3. Voting: Open ballot system, manual sorting and counting
4. Results: Expected to be declared on Monday
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An EDSIEC official, who spoke anonymously, said fears of “unwholesome practices were unfounded” and urged all parties to participate. Efforts to speak directly with the EDSIEC Chairman were unsuccessful.
