The Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) on Monday formally presented certificates of return to 63 newly elected councilors following the September 20 by-elections.
The ceremony, held in Benin City, marked the official recognition of the councilors’ victories across various wards in the state.
EDSIEC Chairman, Mr. Jonathan Aifuobhokhan, represented at the event by Dr. Ikhuoriah Solomon, congratulated the councilors and urged them to serve with integrity and commitment.
He emphasized the importance of grassroots leadership, reminding the recipients that their mandate comes with the responsibility to represent and uplift their communities.
“These certificates are not just symbols of victory—they are instruments of service,” Solomon stated. “We expect you to lead with purpose and ensure that the voices of your constituents are heard.”
However, the by-election has sparked controversy, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) announcing plans to challenge its legality in court.
The party cited a ruling by Justice Mary Itsueli of the Edo High Court, which on September 16 issued an order restraining EDSIEC and the state government from proceeding with the election.
The court held that the tenure of the affected councilors remained valid until September 2026.
Despite the court’s directive to “stay further actions,” EDSIEC proceeded with the polls, citing a resolution passed by the Edo State House of Assembly.
The Assembly had declared the seats vacant, attributing the decision to prolonged absenteeism by the former councilors.
The PDP has argued that the electoral commission’s actions defy judicial authority and undermine democratic principles. Legal experts and political observers are now watching closely as the matter heads to court, where the legitimacy of the by-election and the interpretation of councilor tenure will be scrutinized.
Meanwhile, the newly elected councilors have begun preparations to assume office, even as the legal dispute casts uncertainty over the future of their appointments.
The unfolding situation highlights the complex intersection of law, governance, and electoral administration in Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
