Ahead of the June 2026 Local Government elections in Edo State, the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) has commenced its comprehensive tour of the 18 Local Government Areas of the State in preparation for the elections.

The initial two days touro focused on Edo North, with visits to Owan West, Owan East, Akoko Edo, Etsako East, Etsako Central and Etsako West Local Government Areas.

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‎ Chairman of EDSIEC, Hon. Jonathan Aifuobhokhan, said that the field visit and assessment tour was a critical component of preparations for the upcoming Local Government Elections

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‎”This is not merely a routine exercise, it is a strategic step aimed at ensuring the successful conduct of credible, free, fair, and inclusive elections at the Local Government Level.”

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The Chairman highlighted the importance of evaluating and fortifying the infrastructure that supports electoral operations across the State, noting that the assessment was essential for scrutinizing existing facilities, renovating offices where needed and replacing faulty equipment to ensure a seamless electoral process.

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‎Aifuobhokhan called for collaboration from Local Councils to achieve the objectives, stating, “A strong democracy starts with strong institutions, and strong institutions require strong foundations. The readiness of our field offices is one of those foundations.”

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‎ Representatives from various Local Government Councils expressed their commitment to working closely with EDSIEC during the tour.

Hon. Ohonyo Joy of Owan West, represented by Vice Chairman, Hon. Alabu Dele, and Hon. Aruna Mohammed of Owan East, represented by his Vice, Hon. Emperior Omoruanga, conveyed their Councils’ support for EDSIEC’s initiatives.

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‎ In Akoko Edo, Hon. Alabi Oshionogue, and in Etsako East, Hon. Sunday Akiotu, represented by Hon. Edward Imanobe, also pledged collaboration.

Similarly, Hon. Cephas Muhammad of Etsako Central, represented by the Secretary, Professor Jorom Ilelile, and Hon. Valentine Okwilague of Etsako West, represented by the Secretary, Zikanene Momodu Oyakhamoh, the Secretary of Etsako West, reiterated their Councils’ commitment to ensuring that EDSIEC offices are well-equipped and operationally efficient, and plans are on board to make it more functional.

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On the tour were members of the commission, including, Commissioners Thomas Ighomo, (Barr.) Hope Osarodion, Dr. Suleman Ikhioriah, Anthony Aikpoghomhe, and Frank Umoru as well as the Acting Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Abebe and other key officers of the Commission