Albert Eguaojo, Benin City
The Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) has commenced its comprehensive tour of the eighteen Local Government Areas of the State in preparation for the 2026 elections. The initial two days of the tour focused on Edo North, Owan West, Owan East, Akoko Edo, Etsako East, Etsako Central and Etsako West Local Government Councils.
The Chairman of EDSIEC, Hon. Jonathan Aifuobhokhan, emphasized that the field visit and assessment tour was a critical component of preparations for the upcoming Local Government Elections scheduled for July 16, 2026.
”This is not merely a routine exercise, it is a strategic step aimed at ensuring the successful conduct of credible, free, fair, and inclusive elections at the Local Government Level”. He stated.
The Chairman highlighted the importance of evaluating and fortifying the infrastructure that supports electoral operations across the State, noting that the assessment was essential for scrutinizing existing Facilities, rehabilitating offices where needed and replacing faulty equipment to ensure a seamless electoral process.
Aifuobhokhan called for collaborative efforts from Local Councils to achieve these objectives, stating, “A strong democracy starts with strong institutions, and strong institutions require strong foundations. The readiness of our field offices is one of those foundations”.
Representatives from various Local Government Councils expressed their commitment to working closely with EDSIEC during the tour. Hon. Ohonyo Joy of Owan West, represented by Vice Hon. Alabu Dele, and Hon. Aruna Mohammed of Owan East, represented by Vice Hon. Emperior Omoruanga, conveyed their Councils’ support for EDSIEC’s initiatives.
In Akoko Edo, Rt. Hon. Alabi Oshionogue, and in Etsako East, Hon. Sunday Akiotu, represented by Hon. Edward Imanobe, also pledged collaboration. Similarly, Hon. Cephas Muhammad of Etsako Central, represented by the Secretary, Professor Jorom Ilelile, and Hon. Valentine Okwilague of Etsako West, represented by the Secretary, Zikanene Momodu Oyakhamoh, the Secretary of Etsako West, reiterated their Councils’ commitment to ensuring that EDSIEC offices are well-equipped and operationally efficient, and plans are on board to make it more functional.
The tour included notable attendees, such as Hon. Commissioners Thomas Ighomo, (Barr.) Hope Osarodion, Dr. Suleman Ikhioriah, Anthony Aikpoghomhe, and Frank Umoru, alongside Acting Secretary Mr. Emmanuel Abebe and other key officers in the Commission.
