Agbo stressed that EBSIEC cannot be held responsible for internal party crises that prevented participation. He reiterated that the commission remained independent in carrying out its duties, despite the governor’s constitutional role in appointing its members. “The governor has a constitutional responsibility to appoint members of the commission, subject to the provisions of the law and confirmation by the House of Assembly. But once we are constituted, we have our responsibilities under the law,” he stated.
He also dismissed allegations that Governor Francis Nwifuru interfered in the election, noting that the governor was not a candidate in either the chairmanship or councillorship races. Agbo confirmed that no court order had been issued to halt the election, and the commission would have complied with any valid legal directive if one had existed. He added that parties dissatisfied with the outcome are free to seek redress through appropriate courts or tribunals, and EBSIEC is prepared to defend its actions.
The timing of the election, scheduled before the expiration of the outgoing local government councils’ two-year tenure, was justified as necessary to prevent administrative vacuum. Agbo underscored that holding the election within the required timeframe was crucial for continuity in governance. As the state moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring that future elections are even more inclusive and transparent, reinforcing public trust in the electoral process.
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