INEC Chairman urges peaceful and credible election for Ondo governorship polls
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has called for a peaceful, transparent, and credible governorship election in Ondo State, set for November 16, 2024.
At a meeting with stakeholders in Akure on Thursday, November 7, Professor Yakubu assured the public that INEC is fully prepared for the election and is committed to ensuring fairness throughout the process.
Professor Yakubu shared that the Commission has already taken several key steps to prepare for the election, including the ongoing voter registration process and the collection of Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs). He added that detailed information on PVC collection has been uploaded for all 3,933 polling units across Ondo State.
According to INEC, a total of 2,053,061 registered voters are expected to cast their votes during the election. Yakubu emphasized the importance of a peaceful atmosphere, stating that INEC has worked closely with security agencies to develop a robust security plan to protect voters, observers, the media, and election officials.
Security measures for the election were also highlighted, with the Inspector-General of Police’s representative, AIG Abiodun Oladimeji Asabi, stressing the critical role that security plays in the upcoming election. He noted that peace, order, and security are essential for a successful election, and any disturbances could undermine the process.
In response to concerns about security, the Nigeria Police will deploy 22,239 officers, with additional support from other security agencies. These forces will be stationed at polling units and across key areas to ensure the safety of voters, electoral materials, and election officials. AIG Asabi urged all involved, from political parties to candidates and their agents, to act responsibly and peacefully during the election.
The INEC National Commissioner, Professor Kunle Ajayi, also spoke at the meeting, urging political parties to uphold decorum and integrity. He reminded all stakeholders that elections should not be seen as a zero-sum game but as an opportunity for candidates to compete based on ideas, vision, and respect for the electorate.
To enhance the credibility of the election, INEC will deploy Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) to ensure transparency in the voting process and election results.
In total, INEC has accredited 111 domestic and international organizations to observe the election, with 3,554 observers and over 100 media organizations set to monitor the event.
Professor Yakubu concluded by encouraging all Nigerians to participate peacefully in the election, emphasizing that a free, fair, and secure election is essential for Nigeria’s democracy.
