Today, the eyes of the nation turn to Edo State, where 2,249,780 eligible voters are set to decide the future of their state in what promises to be one of the most highly charged elections in recent memory. Referred to as the “Heartbeat of the Nation,” Edo stands at a pivotal moment, as the state’s next governor will be chosen by a significant portion of its population, representing 85.57% of the registered voters who have collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
The stakes are high. Memories of the 2020 gubernatorial election, where only 557,443 out of 2,210,534 registered voters participated, loom large. Today, the question on everyone’s mind is: Will this election see a greater turnout or will fear and tension once again suppress voter engagement?
With the build-up to the election marred by violence, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies have ramped up preparations. The police, alongside the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and military forces, have deployed over 40,000 personnel to ensure the election is peaceful and fair. The military, armed with a presidential mandate, promises neutrality and swift action against any attempts to compromise the process. Despite these assurances, the atmosphere in Edo remains on edge.
INEC’s preparations also include the distribution of sensitive materials, such as 5,000 Bimodal Voter Accreditation Systems (BVAS), to ensure a seamless voting experience across the state’s 4,519 polling units, 211 collation centers, and 18 local government areas.
Today marks more than just an election—it’s a defining moment for Edo’s future. As the tension builds, the hope remains that the voice of the people will rise above the noise, choosing a leader who will guide the Heartbeat of the Nation forward.
