Edo election: Survey shows voters scared of coronavirus, violence

A survey by YIAGA and NOIPolls has indicated that electorates in Edo State are afraid the forthcoming governorship election in the state may be marred with violence.

The survey also revealed that both voters and election officers are afraid of contracting Coronavirus pandemic during the electoral process.

Voters, according to the survey, also stated that they lack confidence in INEC’s ability to conduct credible elections.

About 68% of respondents support the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to hold the election during the Coronavirus pandemic, while 42% were concerned that voters and election officials could contract the virus on election-day.

Approximately one-in-ten respondents said they had directly experienced violence and intimidation related to the elections, while over one-third had heard political candidates using hate speech on the campaign trail.

The report lists potential hot spots of violence where the electoral battles are expected to be fierce.

They include Etsako West, Etsako East, Etsako Central, Owan West and Akoko-Edo in Edo North Senatorial district. And in Edo South, Oredo, Orhionmwon, Egor, Ovia North East, and Ikpoba-Okha LGAs.

While in Edo Central Senatorial district, Esan Central, Esan North East and Esan West are potential hot spots.

However, despite the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing political crisis, an overwhelming majority of registered voters (85%) report being likely to vote in the election.

Based on the findings of the survey, Yiaga Africa recommended that INEC addresses the perceptions of its lack of independence, impartiality and professionalism, amid other suggestions.