By DADA AYOKHAI
The election umpire, the Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, has placed
the final list of candidates cleared to participate in the Edo state off cycle election slated for September 2024.
Conspicuously missing on the list, is Barr Asamah Yusuf kadiri whose name was forward to the election umpire as the deputy governorship candidate of the Labour Party.
Barr Asamah Yusuf from Auchi in Etsako West name was submitted to inec within the legal period by the party to replaced Mrs Oluyinka Faith Alufohai who the party said was a place holder.
The Edo State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) in reaction to the omission faulted the final list as published by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a press statement signed by Comrade Kelly Ogbaloi, State chairman of the party and made available to newsmen in Benin City, assured party members and supporters that “this is simply a technical error”.
According to Comrade Ogbaloi, “Our team followed all necessary procedures and submitted Alhaji Kadiri’s name and credentials as the deputy governorship candidate, well within INEC’s stipulated window. Unfortunately, a technical glitch occurred at the end of the National Headquarters of our party during the submission process, resulting in the incorrect name appearing on the final list.
“We are currently actively engaged with INEC officials to rectify this issue immediately and our team has provided all requisite documentation demonstrating Alhaji Kadiri’s valid nomination. We have been following-up with INEC diligently, to ensure it updates its candidate list with the accurate information.
“We recognise the anxiety this error may cause, but urge our supporters to remain calm and steadfast in their commitment to our party’s vision. Your unwavering support and activism have been invaluable thus far, and we need you to continue spreading awareness of our platform and championing the positive change we represent.
“The Labour Party is determined to contest the forthcoming September 21, 2024, Edo State Governorship elections fairly and transparently. We should not allow this minor administrative hurdle to dampen our confidence or impede our momentum. Together, we shall overcome any obstacle, minor or major, as we continue our march towards restoring Edo State to its pride of place nationally.”
