There is tension in Edo State as the first batch of 35,000 police officers, soldiers, and officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrive in the state ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.

The deployment is aimed at ensuring a hitch-free poll, with 17 political parties vying to take over from Godwin Obaseki as governor.

Leading contenders include Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party.

According to Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, the military’s presence is crucial in guaranteeing a safe environment for voters and preventing violence. “The military is resolute on taking steps to ensure a hitch-free election in Edo State,” he stated.

However, concerns have been raised regarding the military’s involvement, citing a 2015 Federal High Court ruling that bars soldiers from participating in elections. Security expert Taofik Onigbanjo cautioned against intimidating residents.

He said, “The military presence is good to discourage those who are may want to cause trouble on before the election. I have seen the soldiers in several areas in town and their presence will be good for the smooth conduct of the election,” Onigbanjo said.

“However, the election should not be too militarised so that it will not appear like voters, party leaders and others are being intimidated because this can put a question mark on the credibility of the election.”

It is also understood that the police deployment, led by Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun, aims to maintain law and order. Spokesman Moses Yamu confirmed the arrival of the first batch of officers, with the Deputy Inspector-General expected to brief the media soon.

Additionally, the NSCDC has deployed 6,433 personnel to ensure a peaceful electoral process, with officers set to arrive on Thursday.