BENIN CITY – The Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) has commenced intensive training for election officers ahead of the Saturday, September 20, 2025 by-election across 15 Local Government Areas of the State.
The training, held at Imaguero College, Benin City, was designed to equip Presiding Officers, Assistant Presiding Officers and Returning Officers with the skills and knowledge required for a transparent and credible electoral process.
With the theme, “Election Process and Procedures,” the programme attracted thousands of election officials drawn from across the state.
The sessions featured lectures, interactive workshops, and simulations on electoral guidelines, voting procedures, voter education, conflict resolution, and post-election reporting.
Addressing the officers, an EDSIEC Commissioner, Dr. Seleman Ikhuoriah, and a senior staff member of the commission, Mr. Dickson Aideyan, emphasized professionalism, integrity and neutrality in handling electoral duties.
“As custodians of the electoral process, it is our duty to uphold the values of democracy and ensure that every vote counts,” Aideyan said.
“This training is designed not only to enhance your skills, but also to reinforce your commitment to a free, fair and credible election.”
The officers were also taken through the use of critical election forms, including EDSIEC C1 and EDSIEC D1, while being sensitized on how to manage misinformation, address voter apathy, and strengthen public confidence in the integrity of the polls.
One of the trainees, Mr. Emmanuel Omoregie, expressed confidence in the exercise.
“I am grateful for this opportunity to be trained by experienced officials. I believe that with the right preparation, we can deliver an election that reflects the will of the people,” he said.
The local governments affected by the election are Akoko Edo, Egor, Esan Central, Esan North East, Esan South East, Esan West, Etsako East, Etsako West, Igueben, Ikpoba Okha, Oredo, Orhionmwon, Ovia North, Owan East and Uhunmwonde.
The training, according to EDSIEC’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Albert Eguaojie, marks a crucial step in the state’s preparations as Edo people look forward to a credible electoral experience next Saturday.
