Security has been increased at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) collation center in Edo State in preparation for the collation of results for the gubernatorial elections in the state.

Operatives from various security agencies were seen carrying guns as they patrolled around in their armored tanks.

With sorting and counting currently underway in several polling units, the collation of results from the 18 local governments of the state is expected to begin at any moment.

Seventeen parties participated in the fiercely contested polls, with many attributing the intensity to the emergence of Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party candidate.

Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) are the main contenders in this election.

The elections were held in 4,519 polling units spread across the 18 local government areas of Edo State.

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