The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ondo State, Dr Rufus Akeju, has appealed to all religious leaders in Ondo State to ensure peaceful conduct and support the commission in the forthcoming Oct. 10 governorship election in the State.
He made this appeal to religious leaders during an interactive session in Akure on Wednesday.
He said that INEC needs the support of religious leaders in order to talk to their people especially the youth so that they can shun violence.
“We are counting on your support, our religious leaders. You have done it before and we want you to improve on it.
“INEC has made preparation for peaceful election and nobody will be allowed to vote without permanent voter card and face mask.
“We are appealing to those who are eligible to vote to come out en masse and vote for the candidate of their choice. INEC has secured a safe environment to cast your vote,” he said.
He warned those who might want to engage in vote-buying to desist or face the wrath of the law if caught.
“This is your responsibility to decide the next governor of the state, and please don’t collect money in exchange for a vote.
“If you sell your vote or if you buy votes, you will be caught and dealt with,” he said.
Rev. Ayo Oladapo, the state Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), responded by thanking INEC for its readiness to conduct a credible election. He promised that the Christian body had been sensitising its members and would continue to preach peace to them.
Similarly, Alhaji Akinpelumi Abibullahi, the state Chairman of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (SCIA), stated that the organisation was in support of INEC to allow peace to reign before, during and after the election since the state belonged to all of them.
