PDP Condemns Reported Attempt to Relocate Ideato Federal Constituency Collation Centre

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized claims that the Ideato North/South Federal Constituency Collation Centre may be moved from Urualla in Ideato North to Dikenafai in Ideato South. In a press release, the party called the proposed relocation "deeply troubling and unacceptable," especially if it's being done without proper and transparent discussions with the people and stakeholders of the area.

The PDP emphasized that collating election results is a crucial part of the electoral process, not a private matter. They argued that any decision changing these arrangements must be done openly, with proper procedures, and with the trust of everyone involved. The party expressed particular worry about security being used to justify the move.

While they acknowledged security's importance, they stressed that any such reason needs to be backed by a clear and independently confirmed assessment. The PDP warned that these changes could create doubt and conflict between the communities if not handled correctly. They urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to explain the reasons behind the reported move.

If security was indeed a concern, the party demanded that the evidence be made clear, along with any lawful reasons for the proposed change. They also called for transparency in any consultations held with the stakeholders. The PDP listed several demands, such as getting clear information from INEC about the relocation, understanding the legal and administrative basis for any changes, being transparent about any security assessments, consulting meaningfully with political parties and stakeholders in both Ideato North and Ideato South, and strictly following the established electoral procedures and values of fairness, neutrality, and transparency.

They also demanded assurance that no administrative move would be made to unfairly favor any candidate, party, or political interest. The PDP stressed that they wouldn't accept any changes to the electoral arrangement that could erode public trust in the election process. They said the credibility of an election depends not just on what happens at the polling station but also on how transparent, neutral, and honest every stage of the vote counting process is.

The party called on residents of Ideato North to stay calm and vigilant while insisting, through lawful and democratic means, on transparency and accountability. "Our position is simple: the people's votes must be protected, the electoral process must remain credible, and no administrative decision affecting Ideato Federal Constituency should be taken behind the backs of the people," the PDP concluded.

The proposed relocation is under investigation in a Federal High Court in Abuja, where residents are challenging an alleged plan to shift the collation centre from Urualla to Dikenafai.