Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), is currently leading a key stakeholders’ meeting in Akure to prepare for the upcoming Ondo State Governorship Election, scheduled for November 16, 2024.
The purpose of the meeting is to gather insights and feedback from various stakeholders as the election approaches. Present at the meeting are representatives from political parties, civil society organizations, security agencies, traditional leaders, and the media.
In his address, Professor Kunle Ajayi, the Supervising National Commissioner for Ondo State, urged all stakeholders to collaborate, stating, “The people of Ondo State deserve an election that reflects their will.”
Professor Ajayi highlighted INEC’s commitment to using technology to enhance transparency, specifically mentioning the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV).
“We are committed to leveraging technology to prevent manipulation, to ease the process for voters, and to deliver results with accuracy and speed,” he said.
He advised political parties and candidates to act responsibly, emphasizing, “Elections are not a zero-sum game…inflammatory rhetoric, voter intimidation, or attempts to manipulate the process will not be tolerated by the Commission.”...Read Full Article [Click Here>]
Professor Ajayi added that security officials would be present solely “to maintain peace and protect all individuals involved in the process.”
He also acknowledged the contributions of traditional and religious leaders in promoting peace, saying, “Through your influence and respect within communities, you have consistently promoted messages of peace, tolerance, and unity.”
He commended the media for educating the public, highlighting, “As conveyors of information, we depend on your professionalism, accuracy, and impartiality.”
Professor Ajayi concluded with a call for unity and adherence to democratic values as the election draws near, stating: “The eyes of the nation will be on Ondo State come November 16.
“Let us make this election a positive example of what democracy should be.”
