NDC blames INEC for Edo South candidate mix-up, demands correction

By Jude Opara

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of making an error in the publication of its Edo South Senatorial candidate’s particulars, insisting that the mistake does not alter the party’s official nomination.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Director of New Media and Strategic Communication, Agada Abuh Theophilus, the party maintained that Mrs. Epelle-Asemota Bridgitte Osayuki remains its duly sponsored candidate for the Edo South Senatorial District election.
According to the NDC, INEC correctly published Mrs. Epelle-Asemota’s name and personal information but mistakenly attached the photograph and credentials of another aspirant.
The party said it had fulfilled all legal requirements by submitting the candidate’s name, passport photograph and credentials to the electoral commission, adding that sponsorship is determined by the party’s formal submission of a candidate’s name to INEC in line with the Constitution and the Electoral Act.
It argued that the publication error was the commission’s responsibility and called on INEC to explain how the mix-up occurred, noting that it had evidence showing the successful upload of Mrs. Epelle-Asemota’s details.
The NDC also dismissed attempts to challenge its candidate’s eligibility on ethnic grounds, describing them as politically motivated. It maintained that Mrs. Epelle-Asemota is a Nigerian citizen of Benin ancestry who has lived and worked in Benin throughout her life.
The party further appealed to aspirants dissatisfied with the outcome of its primaries to remain committed to the party and avoid actions capable of undermining its unity.