Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | journalist at wengglobal
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commended residents for their impressive participation in the 2026 local government elections despite a statewide movement restriction imposed by security agencies to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
The election, held across the state’s 18 local government areas on Saturday, witnessed voters turning out at polling units in Benin City, Auchi, Ekpoma and several other communities. Although security agencies had restricted movement during the exercise, reports from different parts of the state indicated that many residents were seen making their way to polling centres while others moved around for essential activities.
Governor Okpebholo, who voted during the exercise, praised Edo residents for demonstrating commitment to democracy through their active participation. He described the turnout as encouraging and said it reflected the people’s determination to strengthen grassroots governance.
The governor urged citizens to remain peaceful throughout the electoral process and appealed to political parties, candidates and supporters to respect the outcome of the election. He stressed that democracy thrives when electoral processes are conducted peacefully and accepted by all stakeholders.
He also commended security agencies, electoral officials and other stakeholders for their efforts in ensuring that the election was conducted under peaceful conditions across much of the state.
Before the election, the Edo State Police Command announced a restriction on movement across the state to safeguard voters, electoral officials and sensitive election materials. Essential workers, accredited journalists, election observers and emergency service providers were exempted from the restriction.
Security personnel were deployed to polling units and strategic locations throughout Edo State to maintain law and order. Police authorities warned that anyone attempting to disrupt the election or violate electoral laws would face prosecution.
Despite the restriction, eyewitnesses reported noticeable movement in parts of Benin City and Auchi, with many residents heading to polling units to exercise their civic responsibility. Security operatives maintained patrols while monitoring compliance with the directive.
Observers noted varying levels of voter turnout across different local government areas. While some polling units experienced early queues, others recorded increased participation later in the day as voting progressed.
Local government elections remain an important part of Nigeria’s democratic system because they determine leaders responsible for governance closest to the people. Local councils oversee critical services such as primary healthcare, sanitation, markets, rural roads and community development.
Political analysts believe the election represents an important political exercise for Governor Okpebholo’s administration and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), as the outcome is expected to provide insight into the party’s grassroots support across Edo State.
In the weeks preceding the election, political parties campaigned extensively, presenting candidates and outlining their plans for improving infrastructure, healthcare, education, employment opportunities and local security.
The Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) coordinated the election by deploying electoral officials and voting materials to polling units across the state. Accreditation and voting commenced according to the commission’s guidelines.
Civil society organisations and election observers monitored the process, urging voters to remain peaceful while encouraging political parties to avoid violence, voter intimidation and other forms of electoral malpractice.
Election experts continue to emphasise that credible local government elections are essential for strengthening democratic institutions in Nigeria. Transparent and peaceful elections, they argue, increase public confidence in governance and encourage greater citizen participation in decision-making.
Governor Okpebholo has consistently stated that his administration remains committed to strengthening governance, improving security and delivering development projects across Edo State. He has also called for greater collaboration between government institutions, traditional rulers and community leaders to address security challenges and promote sustainable development.
Following the close of voting, electoral officials commenced the collation of results under the supervision of party agents and election observers. Security agencies maintained their presence at collation centres to ensure peace and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Residents expressed optimism that those elected would focus on delivering quality governance, transparency and improved public services at the grassroots. Many voters said they participated because local governments directly influence everyday life through infrastructure development, healthcare, education and community projects.
As results continue to emerge, political stakeholders and residents alike remain focused on the credibility of the electoral process and its implications for Edo State’s political landscape.
The successful conduct of the local government election is expected to strengthen democratic participation and reinforce public confidence in grassroots governance, provided the process remains transparent, peaceful and reflective of the will of the people.
Sources
- Vanguard Nigeria
- Channels Television
- The Nation
- TVC News
- Nigerian Tribune
