Benin City — The Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) went ahead with by-elections for councillors in 59 wards across 15 Local Government Areas on Saturday, despite a restraining order from the Edo State High Court.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had obtained the court order, which was handed down by Justice Mary Itsueli, preventing EDSIEC from conducting the elections. However, EDSIEC proceeded, arguing that the by-elections were necessary to fill vacant councillorship seats.
Turnout was reportedly very low. Opposition parties largely boycotted the exercise as a mark of protest over what they describe as a breach of judicial authority. Only the All Progressives Congress (APC) is said to have participated meaningfully.
Journalists covering the event reported incidents of intimidation and obstruction. In some wards, media personnel were prevented from accessing polling areas to observe or report on proceedings.
The governor’s office, the electoral body, and relevant courts have yet to issue unified statements explaining the conflicting actions. Meanwhile, civil society observers and legal experts are calling for clarifications on the legality of holding elections while a court order remains in effect.
