The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has called for a peaceful and credible Ondo State governorship election, which is scheduled for November 16, 2024. During a stakeholders’ meeting in Akure on Thursday, Professor Yakubu highlighted the commission’s preparedness for the election, stressing its commitment to ensuring transparency and credibility throughout the electoral process.
In discussing the preparations for the election, the INEC Chairman outlined the commission’s various efforts, including voter registration and the distribution of Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs). He shared that INEC has made detailed information available on the status of PVC collection for each of the 3,933 polling units in Ondo State. According to Yakubu, a total of 2,053,061 registered voters are expected to participate in the upcoming election.
Regarding security measures, Yakubu emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of all individuals involved in the election, including voters, observers, the media, and electoral officials. He revealed that INEC has been working closely with security agencies to put in place a robust security plan aimed at safeguarding the election process.
In addition, the National Commissioner for INEC, Professor Kunle Ajayi, called on political parties to behave responsibly and with decorum. He reminded stakeholders that elections are not a zero-sum game, and democracy thrives when candidates compete based on ideas, vision, and respect for the electorate.
To further ensure transparency and credibility, INEC confirmed it will deploy the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) during the election. The commission has also accredited 111 domestic and international organizations, including 3,554 observers and over 100 media organizations, who will be monitoring the election.
The Inspector-General of Police, represented by AIG Abiodun Oladimeji Asabi, emphasized the crucial role of security in the upcoming election. He stressed that peace, order, and security are vital for a successful election, and any breach could undermine the integrity of the process. In response, the Nigeria Police will deploy 22,239 officers, along with personnel from sister security agencies, to maintain order at polling stations, protect voters, and ensure the safety of electoral materials.
AIG Asabi also called on all stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, and their agents, to conduct themselves peacefully and lawfully. He urged adherence to global best practices in democracy and cautioned against violence, thuggery, or any actions that could disrupt the election. He assured that anyone caught violating electoral laws would face diligent prosecution.
