From Moshood Karim
Security was ramped up in Benin on Thursday as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) moved sensitive materials to Edo Central Senatorial District and Edo South ahead of Saturday’s high-stakes bye-elections.
The elections — for the Edo Central Senatorial seat and the Ovia South West/Ovia South East Federal Constituency — are expected to fill crucial legislative gaps, restoring full representation to the affected constituencies.
The distribution, which began at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) premises, drew the presence of heavily armed security personnel, party agents, and members of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC). Political stakeholders were seen inspecting ballot papers and result sheets before they were dispatched under strict supervision.
INEC assured that all materials would arrive at its local government offices before the close of Thursday, stressing that the early movement was aimed at ensuring a smooth and transparent poll.
Saturday’s vote is widely viewed as a litmus test for political influence in Edo ahead of the 2027 general elections, with major parties expected to test their grassroots strength in what could be a fiercely contested poll.
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