News

#EdoDecides: APC, PDP Agents Seen Bribing Voters – Yiaga

Published

11 months ago

September 21, 2024

Editor

Yiaga Africa says agents of the APC and PDP, two major parties taking part in the Edo governorship election, were seen buying votes with N10,000 each in some polling units

Yiaga Africa in its interim report stated: “APC and PDP party agents were seen bribing voters with cash (N10,000) at the Igueben – Idumoka Pri School polling unit (12-10-03-004) Ward 1 in Igueben LGA. Party agents for APC and PDP were also seen handing out cash gifts (N10,000) in Enikaro – Enikaro Primary School IX Polling Unit (12-11-07-009) in Ugbekun ward, Ikpoba/Okha LGA,” the report stated.

In the report, YIAGA also highlighted factors that undermined the election.

The organisation, in a statement on Saturday, said it deployed the Process and Results Verification for Transparency (PRVT) methodology to observe the governorship election.

The statement signed by Aisha Abdullahi, the chair of the 2024 Edo election mission, said the PRVT enables the organisation to independently assess the quality of election day processes and verify the accuracy of the official election results as announced by INEC.

“After the polls close, observers will observe the results collation process at both the LGA and state levels, ensuring timely and accurate reporting of the election process,” the statement said.

Yiaga noted that despite a tense political climate, the Edo governorship election began peacefully with minimal incidents.

Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it.
Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you.

Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation.

Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories —no paywalls, just quality journalism.

However, it said logistical challenges caused delays in the commencement of accreditation and voting in several polling units.

“As predicted in Yiaga Africa’s pre-election statement, late openings were attributed to logistical issues and poor weather conditions, such as rainfall. Voters patiently waited to cast their votes despite these delays.”

It added that the lack of vehicles to transport ad hoc officials and election materials and the absence of security personnel to accompany them further contributed to the delays.

It said most polling units observed had security officials, but the distribution of security personnel was uneven, resulting in limited security presence in some densely populated polling units.

The organisation said it is concerned by reports of intimidation of INEC officials to bypass the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in Akoko-Edo LGA, missing results sheets in Polling Unit 1 in Ward 8, Orhionmwon LGA, and disruptions caused by political thugs chasing voters from Polling Unit 5 in Uwessan Ward 2, Esan Central LGA.

These infractions, it said, risk voter suppression and election manipulation.

Yiaga Africa called on INEC to strictly enforce its guidelines and to resist any pressure to deviate from the electoral legal framework.

The organisation commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and security agencies for their swift action in arresting suspected vote-buyers at polling units in Egor and Oredo LGAs.

It said the commission should extend its operations to other LGAs where votes are being traded for N10,000 per voter even in the presence of security personnel.

“The Nigeria Police is also applauded for arresting and disarming political thugs with firearms on the eve of the election, contributing to a more secure election day environment,” it said.

The organisation said initial findings are based on reports received from 287 of the 300 sampled polling units and processed at 1:30 pm on election day.

“Additional information and updates will be provided subsequently,” it said.

On the arrival of INEC officials and commencement of polls in the polling units observed, Yiaga Africa noted a slow start to the voting process, with INEC officials arriving in only 43 per cent of polling units by 7:30 a.m.

It explained that the geographical breakdown shows that there was a late arrival of INEC officials in 69 per cent of polling units in Edo North, 35 per cent in Edo Central, and 56 per cent in Edo South.

It noted that most INEC officials did not arrive by 7:30 a.m. By 8:30 a.m., only 17 per cent of the polling units had opened for accreditation and voting, while by 9:30 a.m., 65 per cent had commenced the voting process.

On material deployment, Yiaga said there was adequate deployment of election materials like the voters’ register, voting cubicle, official stamp, Ink pad, and indelible ink in the polling units observed.

The organisation also noted the deployment of assistive materials for persons with disability, with magnifying glasses deployed in 27 per cent of the polling units, braille ballot guide in 38 per cent of polling units and PWD posters in 84 per cent of polling units.

On the deployment of the BVAS, the organisation observed that every polling unit had a BVAS deployed.

Additionally, it noted that 6 per cent of the polling units had two or more BVAS machines deployed. However, in 2 per cent of polling units, the BVAS accreditation count was not shown to voters to confirm that it was set to zero before the start of accreditation and voting.

On the deployment of party agents, it said All Progressives Congress (APC) party agents were sighted at 98 per cent of polling units, Labour Party (LP) agents were in 77 per cent of polling Units, and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) agents were in 99 per cent of polling units.

On the deployment of security personnel, it added that security agents were seen in 95 per cent of polling units.

According to the statement, as of 1:40 p.m., the Yiaga Africa WTV Data Center received 16 verified critical incident reports primarily relating to the late opening of polls.

The organisation said it received reports of four polling units that failed to open. This incident, it said, was reported in two polling units in Egor, one in Esan South East, and one in Etsako West.

It further explained that the BVAS malfunctioned in Ayogwiri Town Hall, Ayogwiri Polling Unit, of Uzairure South East ward in Etsako West LGA. As of 1 p.m., voting had not commenced in the polling unit.

According to the statement, voters halted the accreditation and voting process in the Ikpoba Army Children XI polling unit (12-11-01-011) in Iwogban/Uteh Ward, Ikpoba/Okha LGA because INEC officials arrived without the official stamp.

“At Ebua Market Square in Uhunwode LGA, an altercation between APC and PDP supporters over alleged bribery led to the suspension of voting and the destruction of the voting cubicle. Political thugs also disrupted voting at Anyaran Araromi Primary School in Akoko Edo LGA,” it said.

Yiaga said its observers reported incidents of vote buying in Ikpoba/Okha, Igueben, Esan West, Akoko Edo, Owan West and Uhunmode LGAs.

“APC and PDP party agents were seen bribing voters with cash (N10,000) at the Igueben – Idumoka Pri School polling unit (12-10-03-004) Ward 1 in Igueben LGA. Party agents for APC and PDP were also seen handing out cash gifts (N10,000) in Enikaro – Enikaro Primary School IX Polling Unit (12-11-07-009) in Ugbekun ward, Ikpoba/Okha LGA,” it said.

Related Topics:#Edo decides #edo poll Edo Guber

Up Next

#EdoDecides: PDP Demands Prosecution Of INEC’s Presiding Officer Over Alleged Vote Allocation

Don't Miss

#EdoDecides: Vote Buying Was More Of Systemic Than Open Transactions – CSO

Comments

News

UNICEF Advocates Six Months Maternity Leave From Working Mothers In Bauchi

Published

5 hours ago

August 4, 2025

Editor

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called on the Bauchi state government to initiate a six months paid maternity leave to working mothers in the state.

Dr Nuzhat Rafique, UNICEF’s Bauchi Chief of Field Office, stated this in a news conference in Bauchi on Tuesday to market the 2025 breastfeeding week.

According to her, the six months maternity leave would help the mothers to initiate the six months exclusive breastfeeding for their children and help in improving their health status in general.

“We really need the state government, the health system to play their roles to support the mothers.

“If the state government has a policy for six months paid maternity leave, that would play a huge role in the better nutritional status of children and initiation of exclusive six months breastfeeding for the mothers.

“Staying with the child automatically ensures better care and hygiene of the child, making them free from diarrhea which is one of the major causes of malnutrition,” she said.

Rafique added that unless women were fully supported, it would be difficult for them to do the right things like initiate breastfeeding on time, continue exclusive breastfeeding for six months, and initiate complementary breastfeeding till 24 months.

She, however, called on the state government to also come up with breastfeeding corners for working mothers to feed their children after resumption from the six months maternity leave.

Rafique said that if mothers didn’t have a good private place to feed their children, it would be difficult for them to continue feeding by working, performing and contributing towards the state’s progress and the country at large.

“These are the foundation for having a healthy, intelligent, productive next generation.

“There is a formula we need to promote which is one, six and 24.

“One means that the first hour of the baby must be initiated with breastfeeding, six means that a child must be exclusively breastfed for a good six months and then the initiation of complementary feeding along with the continuation of breastfeeding till 24 months,” she explained.

Earlier speaking, Mrs Philomena Irene, UNICEF’s Nutrition Specialist in Bauchi, revealed that over 15 states have extended paid maternity leave to working mothers across the country like Kebbi, Borno, Kaduna, Plateau among others.

“We want the media to help us amplify the benefits of breast milk, the benefits of breastfeeding both to the mother, the child and even the society at large,” she said.

On his part, Mr Abubakar Sale, the Bauchi state Nutrition Officer, appreciated UNICEF for supporting the state in terms of improving the healthy living of pregnant women and children, not only on nutrition but other aspects of health.

“The government is trying its best to see to the improvement in especially exclusive breastfeeding and other nutrition indicators in the state.

“We are doing our part together with other partners and media practitioners are very important to amplify or inform the members of the society the importance of exclusive breastfeeding so that in our next survey, we will be able to improve,” he said.

News

Tinubu Gives D’Tigress $100,000 Each, Flats, National Honour

Published

6 hours ago

August 4, 2025

Editor

President Bola Tinubu has honoured Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, with a reward package that includes $100,000 for each player, $50,000 for every member of the 11-man coaching and technical crew.

Tinubu also rewarded all team members and staff with a three-bedroom flat at the Renewed Hope Estate.

In addition, the President conferred on the players and their technical crew the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger.

This was announced by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the presidential reception in their honour at the State House Banquet hall, Abuja.

The triumphant D’Tigress alongside their officials, were warmly welcomed by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, supported by the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, at the New Banquet Hall in the Presidential Villa at 5:05 pm.

On behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Shettima received the team in recognition of their outstanding achievement.

Also in attendance at the reception were Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youths and Sports Development, Garba Maidoki; and Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Kabiru Amadou.

The D’Tigress arrived after clinching their historic fifth consecutive AfroBasket title, outplaying Mali 78–64 in the final held at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

This win marks their seventh overall championship, reinforcing their supremacy in African women’s basketball.

The ceremony at the Presidential Villa mirrors a similar reception President Tinubu hosted a week earlier for the national female football team, the Super Falcons, who recently secured their tenth WAFCON title in Rabat, Morocco.

Tinubu’s remarks, delivered by Shettima at the reception noted, “Beyond being ambassadors of our nation and symbols of excellence, you have reminded us all of the power of sports to unite a diverse nation. Your victory is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. You have brought home not just a trophy, but valuable lessons for all Nigerians.

“It is a great honour, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, to welcome our formidable D’Tigress to the State House. Once again, you are continental champions and now the top African team to qualify for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup pre-qualifying tournament. You conquered Africa with a score of 78 to 64—showcasing not just tactical skill, but remarkable determination and resilience. The entire nation stands behind you with pride and support.

“My dear daughters, you faced challenges bravely, especially in the final quarter, responding not with panic but with poise. When you wore the green and white, it was more than just a uniform—you wore it with purpose, and now you wear the crown of African basketball for the fifth consecutive time.”

The President hailed Rena Wakama’s strength and inspiring young girls in the country.

“Coach Rena Wakama, you embody the evolution of leadership in Nigerian sports. Your quiet strength and remarkable achievements have shattered ceilings and inspired countless young girls across Nigeria. You truly deserve your accolades as the best coach in Africa and beyond.

“To Amy Okonkwo, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and Ezinne Kalu, the top scorer in the final, your brilliance lifted the whole team, but most importantly, you played for Nigeria and made us all proud.

“Let us reflect on one profound truth: Nigerian women have never failed the nation in sports. From the Super Falcons on the world stage, to record-breakers on the track, and now a basketball dynasty, our women have consistently been a source of pride and have proven that where preparation meets opportunity, Nigerian excellence prevails.”

Tinubu said the administration is prioritizing sports as a crucial driver of national development and economic growth, viewing it as more than entertainment but also infrastructure, education, diplomacy, and a tool for youth employment and transformation.

He also recognised the National Sports Commission, led by Mallam Alabi, for its efforts in athlete welfare, institutional reform, grassroots support, and performance-driven development, with visible positive results.

“Special appreciation goes to the National Sports Commission, under Mallam Alabi, for renewed focus on athlete welfare, institutional reform, grassroots support, and performance-based development. The results are evident, and we are proud of you. The Nigerian Basketball Federation, led by Malam Ahmadu Musa Kida, also deserves recognition for consistent team development and dedication to Nigeria’s sporting glory.

“Our government will ensure that D’Tigress, their technical team, and sports leadership in Nigeria are appropriately recognized and rewarded. You have made us proud, and we will stand by you as you prepare for the global stage.

“To all Nigerian youth, let the story of D’Tigress inspire you. Greatness stems from hard work, discipline, and belief. Nigeria belongs to those who dare to dream and are willing to give their all to realize those dreams.

“D’Tigress: you are champions, role models, pathfinders, and true daughters of this land. It is my honor and privilege, on behalf of President Tinubu, to announce national honors for the team, coach, and technical staff; $100,000 for each player; $50,000 for the coach and technical team; and more rewards to come.

“This is true leadership—recognizing and rewarding those who have excelled for our nation. May God bless you all, may God bless Nigerian sports, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he concluded.

News

Step-by-step Guide For Checking 2025 WASSCE Results

Published

7 hours ago

August 4, 2025

Editor

Following the release of the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination results on Monday, the West African Examinations Council has provided a step-by-step guide to help candidates access their results online.

To check your results, candidates are required to visit the official result portal at http://waecdirect.org and follow the instructions carefully.

Here is the step-by-step guide for checking 2025 WASSCE results.

Enter your 10-digit WAEC Examination Number.
(This is your 7-Digit centre number followed by your 3-digit candidate number eg. 4123456789).
For examination year < 1999, enter your 8-digit WAEC Examination Number.
(This is your 5-Digit centre number followed by your 3-digit candidate number eg. 19865001)
Enter the 4 digits of your Examination Year eg. 2002
Select the Type of Examination
Enter the e-PIN Voucher Number
Enter the Personal Identification Number (PIN) on your e-PIN
Click Submit and wait for the results window to come up