Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has criticised the Saturday election in Edo State, describing it as a “blatant example of ‘state capture’” that undermines Nigeria’s democratic process.

In a statement released on Monday via X following the weekend’s events, Obi expressed concern over the integrity of the electoral system.

“What happened over the weekend in the name of election in Edo State does not in any way represent the democratic process we chose as a method of electing our political leadership,” Obi said.

He warned that such flawed leadership recruitment processes could have dire consequences for the nation.

Obi called on authorities to address the situation, stating, “I urge those in authority not to allow this situation to stand, or depend on it to remain in power.”

He emphasised the importance of properly utilising the Independent National Electoral Commission’s technological advancements, such as IReV and BVAS, to ensure free and fair elections.

The former Anambra State governor further addressed those involved in undermining the democratic process.

“To the agencies and individuals being used to undermine our democracy simply because they hold positions of authority, please remember that your time in office is not eternal,” he said.

Obi extended this warning to academics and others complicit in the alleged electoral malpractices, urging them to reflect deeply on the roles they are playing in damaging the very foundation of Nigeria’s democracy.

Reiterating his vision for Nigeria, Obi stated, “Today’s politics is not about capturing power, but about saving the country and making it work for everyone, regardless of their background.”

At the end of Saturday’s election, INEC announced that the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Monday Okpebholo, polled 291,667 votes to defeat his closest rival and the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, Asue Ighodalo, who garnered 247,274 votes.

The third force, the Labour Party, however, did not spring the much-expected surprise as its candidate, Olumide Akpata, managed to get a scanty 22,763 votes.