Delta LGA Polls: Delta Senator Accuses DSIEC Of Colluding With PDP To Manipulate Electoral Process

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South Senatorial District, has strongly condemned the Delta State Independence Electoral Commission (DSIEC) for failing to release sensitive electoral materials, including result sheets and ballot papers, for the local government council elections in the state.

“This is undemocratic and unacceptable,” Senator Joel-Onowakpo said while addressing newsmen in Emede, Isoko Southlocal government area of the state.

He said; “Democracy worldwide is about the will of the people, but DSIEC and the PDP have conspired to deny citizens their right to elect local government leaders.”

The Senator alleged that the PDP, aware of the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) readiness to take over local government affairs, conspired with DSIEC to manipulate the electoral process.

“The non-release of sensitive materials constitutes electoral fraud and compromises the election’s integrity,” Senator Joel-Onowakpo emphasized.

“We need local government autonomy, and I commend the Federal Government and Supreme Court for taking steps towards this goal”, he added.

He stressed the need for constitutional amendment to transfer the power to constitute state electoral commissions from state governors to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

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“Until INEC takes over local government elections, we cannot guarantee the true autonomy of the third tier of government,” Senator Joel-Onowakpo maintained.