The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that candidates in the upcoming Ondo State governorship election will sign a peace accord on November 8, 2024. This move aims to promote a peaceful and violence-free poll.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, made the announcement during a quarterly consultative meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Abuja. The peace accord is facilitated by the National Peace Committee, led by former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar.
Yakubu revealed that nearly 72% of registered voters have collected their Permanent Voter Cards. Additionally, INEC has scheduled a mock accreditation exercise for November 6 to test result uploads on its result viewing portal.
INEC is working closely with security agencies to prevent violence before, during, and after the election. Yakubu acknowledged potential flashpoints in some local government areas, which have been brought to the attention of security agencies.
Yakubu urged CSOs that observed the recent Edo State governorship election to submit their reports promptly. He emphasized the crucial role civil society plays in promoting peaceful elections.
INEC will conduct a final readiness assessment next week, meeting with officials, stakeholders, security agencies, and transport providers to ensure a smooth electoral process.
The Ondo State governorship election is scheduled to take place on November 16, 2024.
