Edo REC Responds to Calls for Removal, Dismisses PDP Allegations

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Edo State, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, has dismissed growing calls for his removal by the state’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), asserting that he remains unbothered by such threats and would simply be redeployed if removed.

Speaking during a press briefing in Benin City, Onuoha criticized what he described as a flawed mindset within the political ecosystem, where losing parties are quick to blame electoral umpires while victors praise the same institutions.

“This attitude in our electoral system where those who lose insult the electoral body and those who win sing its praises is entirely misplaced,” Onuoha stated. “I did not make anyone lose the election. As REC, I cannot be in every polling unit.”

He insisted that the PDP’s demands reflect a lack of understanding of the commission’s operational structure, emphasizing that electoral processes are collective efforts carried out by various officials, not by one individual.

“I am not afraid of being removed. Even if I am, I’ll be transferred to another state. My conscience is clear, and so is that of every staff member at the commission,” he said.

Responding to allegations of election irregularities, Onuoha reminded critics that Nigeria’s Supreme Court had already validated the outcome of the polls, upholding INEC’s conduct.

“The Supreme Court has confirmed that we conducted a credible election. That ruling supersedes any contrary opinion. Anyone disputing this is not speaking the truth,” he added.

He further underscored the transparency and integrity of INEC’s systems, noting that even a full-scale redeployment of staff would not alter the commission’s strict anti-manipulation framework.

Onuoha challenged critics to direct their concerns at the broader legal and institutional frameworks, rather than scapegoating electoral officers for political losses.