Ondo 2024: INEC Vows to Ensure Smooth and Fair Election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared its comprehensive readiness to conduct a free, fair, and credible governorship election in Ondo State, scheduled for next Saturday.

INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu emphasized the commission's extensive preparations during a stakeholders' meeting with all 17 governorship candidates.

INEC's commitment to a transparent electoral process is underscored by the deployment of BVAS machines for voter accreditation and the uploading of results to the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal.

"We’re fully prepared for the Ondo election," Yakubu assured, highlighting the measures taken to ensure integrity and efficiency.

The commission has meticulously organized voter registration and PVC collection, providing detailed data on collected and uncollected PVCs across Ondo’s 3,933 polling units.

With 2,053,061 registered voters, INEC has also accredited 111 domestic and international organizations, deploying 3,554 observers to monitor the election.

To bolster transparency, over 100 media organizations, including 700 personnel with 129 female journalists, have been accredited, marking the largest media presence for any off-cycle governorship election in Nigeria.

Accreditation cards, vehicle stickers, and logistical arrangements are in place, with sensitive materials expected to arrive by Tuesday next week for inspection at the Central Bank in Akure.

Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun announced the deployment of 22,239 officers, supplemented by additional personnel from sister agencies, to ensure security throughout the election period.

Speaking through AIG Zone 17, Abiodun Asabi, he urged stakeholders to avoid violence and maintain a sportsmanlike attitude, reassuring the public of a peaceful environment.