PAF condemns PDP Governors’ conduct in Edo election as threat to democracy

The Patriotism Awareness Forum (PAF) has denounced the actions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum regarding the recently concluded Edo State gubernatorial election, labeling their behavior as a threat to democracy and national security.

In a statement signed by Nelson Ekujumi, the group’s Convener, and Peter Claver Oparah, Co-Convener, PAF expressed outrage over the alleged announcement of a “fake and concocted” election result by the PDP Governors.

According to the civil society group, the election was peacefully and successfully conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), making the actions of the PDP governors both unnecessary and harmful.

PAF criticized the PDP Governors Forum, accusing them of resorting to self-help after their candidate lost the election. The group singled out Governor Ahmed Fintiri of Adamawa State, who was involved in a similar controversy during the 2023 general election.

PAF expressed disappointment that Fintiri, despite being a recent beneficiary of due electoral process, served as the spokesperson for what they described as a “show of shame” by the PDP governors.

“The Electoral Law is clear,” PAF stated, “only INEC has the authority to conduct and declare election results. The desperate actions of the PDP governors to forge and announce a fraudulent result represent an illegal act that undermines our democracy.”

The group further warned that the PDP’s actions, if left unchecked, could provoke violence and jeopardize national security. “In every election, there is a winner and a loser. PDP and its governors must accept that fact, rather than engage in dangerous, lawless behavior,” the statement read.

PAF called on security agencies to investigate the PDP Governors Forum for what it termed “electoral brigandage” and urged the prosecution of those responsible to prevent future violations of the electoral process.

The group concluded by reaffirming its commitment to upholding Nigeria’s democratic values and condemned the actions of the PDP governors as a grave threat to the country’s stability.