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Local government

Edo State Government Suspends NULGE Election Amidst Violence

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Edo State Government has taken drastic action to prevent further escalation of violence in the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) election, suspending the process indefinitely. The decision was prompted by reports of violent disruptions in several local government areas, including Uhunmwode and Igueben, where delegates were allegedly assaulted and chased away by armed thugs. The violence was attributed to imposition of favored candidates and sporadic shootings to disrupt the election.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Edo State Government suspended the NULGE election due to violent disruptions in several local government areas.
  • The election process, which started on a peaceful note, turned violent following gunshots and allegations of imposition of favored candidates.
  • The Edo State Local Government Commission ordered the suspension of the elections in the 18 councils, citing growing unrest and disputes among staff of the Unified Local Government Service.
  • The letter from the Commission, signed by Secretary Odigie George, stated that the election was postponed pending further consultations with relevant stakeholders.
  • Delegate Esohe attributed the disruption to imposition, stating that a particular council chairman had written the names of favored candidates in the council.

Statistics:

  • The election was simultaneously held across the 18 local government areas of the state.
  • In Uhunmwode and Igueben local government areas, delegates who declined to vote for a particular candidate were allegedly assaulted and chased away by armed thugs.
  • The Commission noted an increasing number of petitions, disputes, and growing unrest among staff of the Unified Local Government Service.
  • Reports of shootings and injuries sustained by staff were captured in viral video clips.
  • The election was postponed pending further consultations with relevant stakeholders.

Sources:

  • yDaily Trust
  • Letter from the Edo State Local Government Commission, signed by Odigie George, Secretary

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