The National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the Edo State gubernatorial election, Rhoda Gumus, has firmly pledged to resist any form of bribery during the ongoing election.
Gumus made this declaration during an appearance on Politics Today, a Channels TV program, on Friday.
In her statement, Gumus made it clear that she is committed to ensuring a transparent and credible election process for the people of Edo State.
“I am in charge of Edo. I want to do the right thing, even though I will not be everywhere. We will conduct this election in a free, fair and credible manner,” she asserted.
Reaffirming her integrity, the INEC commissioner categorically stated her refusal to accept any bribe, regardless of the amount.
“I cannot take bribes no matter how much. I don’t have to take billions to do what is right,” she emphasized.
Gumus also issued a stern warning to anyone considering bribery or interference in the electoral process, asserting that she will not tolerate any such attempts.
“Nowhere, nobody will try. Nobody will try me. You know in any office… you are in this country; they know everything about you. And when they know you, they will not come near. If I see it, I will not allow it,” she stated.
She further explained her proactive approach to overseeing the election process.
“You won’t believe that since we started this process every day, I am on the platform with the EOCs. In five or two minutes’ intervals, I will enter the platform to know what is happening. If there is anything, I would correct it. That is what I have been doing.”
As the election continues, Gumus’s commitment to a free and fair electoral process serves as a strong assurance to voters in Edo State.
INEC remains steadfast in its role as the impartial overseer of the election, focused on upholding the credibility of the democratic process.