By David Lawani, Abuja
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu alongside the Chairman of the National Peace Committee (NPC), General Abdulsalam Abubakar (Rtd) and other key stakeholders have called for a collective commitment to fostering a peaceful electoral process in Ondo State.
Prof. Yakubu delivered this goodwill message during the signing of the Peace Accord ahead of the upcoming Ondo State Governorship Election.
The ceremony held at the International Culture and Event Centre (The Dome) in Akure, Ondo State brought together all candidates contesting the election to formally sign the Peace Accord.
In his address, Prof. Yakubu praised the National Peace Committee (NPC) for its continued effort to promote a peaceful political atmosphere, noting that their success at the national level has now extended to off-cycle Governorship Elections.
He observed that the signing of the peace accord has become a key feature of elections across various States including previous ones in Edo, Anambra, Ekiti, Osun, Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi.
The INEC Chairman expressed confidence that the 2024 Ondo State Governorship Election would proceed peacefully while acknowledging the proactive efforts of the security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders.
Prof. Yakubu stressed that INEC had implemented extensive measures to improve election logistics, addressing an area historically fraught with challenges.
He noted that the commission had embarked in rigorous engagements with security agencies and transport service providers to ensure seamless movement of over 17,000 personnel and election materials across the 4,154 voting and collation centres throughout the State.
He stated further that specific logistics strategies were also highlighted for the riverine areas of Ese Odo and Ilaje Local Government Areas where boats will be used to transport materials.
While recognizing the significance of the Peace Accord, the INEC Chairman emphasized that its success relies on the genuine commitment of political parties and candidates to uphold its principles.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the National Peace Committee (NPC) Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd), struck a tone of optimism and responsibility as he addressed stakeholders ahead of the upcoming Ondo State Governorship Election.
Gen. Abubakar urged the stakeholders in the electoral process to support a peaceful and credible election, highlighting the importance of unity thus emphasizing that all political parties and their candidates must commit wholeheartedly to non-violence and fair competition.
“Let us remember that a true leader fosters peace and democracy, embracing outcomes judged to be free, fair and credible,” he added.
General Abubakar commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its diligent preparations and charged the electoral body to uphold its mandate by providing a secure environment for every eligible voter to participate in the election.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Nigeria Police Force and the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) for their role in maintaining a peaceful atmosphere in Ondo State.
As the election date approaches, he urged security forces to sustain their vigilant efforts to prevent any disruptions.
The NPC Chairman also addressed the people of Ondo State directly, urging them to come out en-masse on Election Day to vote for their preferred candidate while refraining from selling their votes.
He reminded voters that democracy thrives when citizens make independent and uncoerced choices.
Additionally, he cautioned against making inflammatory statements after the announcement of results, emphasizing that only INEC holds the constitutional authority to declare election outcomes.
General Abubakar (rtd.) concluded by expressing optimism that the Ondo State Election would set a standard for future off-cycle elections in Nigeria, stating, “May this election reaffirm our collective commitment to peace and the democratic process.”
In a strong assurance of security, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun announced a robust deployment strategy involving 43,157 security personnel across the State.
The IGP outlined that this deployment would cover all the 3,933 polling units, 203 wards, and 18 Local Government Areas thereby ensuring a safe environment for voters, INEC officials and observers.
He IGP stated further that the 34, 657 officers will be drawn from the Nigeria Police Force, with each polling unit receiving at least four officers to maintain order and swiftly address any disturbances.
Represented by DIG Sylvester Abiodun, the IGP further emphasized that to bolster this security arrangement, an additional 8,500 officers from various federal agencies would be integrated. These include personnel from the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, Nigeria Immigration Service and the Federal Road Safety Corps.
The IGP emphasized that this collaborative deployment underscores a unified commitment to maintaining peace and curbing any attempts to disrupt the electoral process.
Mr. Egbetokun stated that, in preparation for this large-scale deployment, the Nigeria Police Force, working in collaboration with other security agencies has carried out thorough threat assessments and developed detailed operational plans.
These preparations include ongoing monitoring and assessment of high-risk areas with contingency measures put in place to respond swiftly to any incidents.
The IGP reassured the citizens of Ondo State that their votes and rights would be safeguarded, emphasizing that security agencies remain committed to ensuring a peaceful election, maintaining neutrality and providing a fair and level playing field for all candidates.
