By KINGSLEY OHENS

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been called upon to side with the people of Edo State and make their votes and will in Saturday?s governorship election count.

The call was made in Benin City on Sunday by a pro-democracy group, Edo Vanguard for the Protection of Democracy (EVPD) in a statement signed by its National Co-ordinator, Barr. Engr Patrick Egbadon Okpebholo, aka Patsbolo.

The pro-democracy group noted that it was thoroughly ashamed and saddened by the brazen move by the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) to take over Edo State by all means necessary. It called on the electoral umpire in the state headed by Dr Anugbum Onuoha, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), not to succumb to any attempt to subvert the will or expressed choice of the people. The statement reads in part:

?The Edo Vanguard for the Protection of Democracy (EVPD) notes with sadness the undisguised moves by the All Progressives Congress (APC), to take over Edo State by all means necessary at the ongoing election. It is disheartening, to say the least, that all negatives forces that erode the credibility of the electoral system have been deployed by the APC to achieve its aim, including but not limited to intimidating and harassing supporters of other parties through security agencies, particularly, the Nigeria Police Force, perpetrating violence at polling units, vote buying, falsification of result figures, kidnapping of opponents? agents and many other such acts that negates the principles of democracy.

?We call on INEC to remain steadfast and yield not to any attempt to get it compromised. Respect the will and choice of the people as already expressed through their vote on Saturday, and be bold enough to announce the results now.

?The world is watching and the people are waiting. Edo people don?t deserve to be associated with a political landscape riddled with corruption, violence, and dishonesty. We call on INEC to stand firm in its commitment to a democratic process characterized by transparency, fairness, and respect for all citizens. Don?t short circuit their joy and celebration. Don?t let the people of Edo State down.

As at the time of this reports the INEC has said that it would start collation of results today by 10 am.

The world is watching. Every eye, whether near or distant, is fixed upon the unfolding of the electoral process in Edo State, hoping to witness the embodiment of democracy in its purest form. To subvert this process is to play with fire, to manipulate the very essence of governance that has been fought for through centuries of struggle and sacrifice. You have the authority to ensure that every vote counts, that every voice reverberates through the halls of power. To turn your back on this duty is to betray the principles that bind us in a democratic society.

Write your name in gold,? the statement urged INEC.

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