As the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states draw near, Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has issued a stern directive to security agents to be vigilant and strict in managing any threats to the electoral process.
Yakubu’s comments came during an emergency meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) in Abuja. He highlighted the crucial role of maintaining security during the elections and urged party leaders and their spokespersons to moderate their rhetoric.
According to Yakubu, a peaceful election campaign is essential for a peaceful election. He emphasized that political parties, candidates, and their supporters should strive to uphold peace and civility as election day approaches.
The INEC Chairman also underscored the importance of adherence to the established code of conduct for security personnel. He stressed that while security agents must take firm action against any threats, they must do so in accordance with their operational guidelines to ensure fairness and legitimacy in the electoral process. Yakubu’s comments reflect concerns about the potential for disruption from both state and non-state actors, and he called for enhanced coordination between INEC and security agencies to address these issues effectively.
With the Edo governorship election scheduled in just 37 days and the Ondo election 93 days away, Yakubu pointed out the need for continued focus on various preparatory aspects, including training for election officials, logistical arrangements for the movement of personnel and materials, and the management of polling and collation activities. He reiterated that these processes must proceed smoothly to ensure the elections are conducted without interruptions.
In addition to these remarks, Yakubu provided an update on the election candidates, stating that the final list has been published. In both Edo and Ondo states, 34 governorship candidates from 17 political parties are competing. This high level of participation underscores the significance of the elections and the need for effective management and security.
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, represented by a Director, also spoke at the meeting. Ribadu warned against any attempts to undermine or disrupt the elections, describing such actions as attacks on the nation’s democracy. He acknowledged past instances of violence associated with political campaigns in Edo and emphasized the administration’s commitment to a peaceful electoral process.
Ribadu assured voters that the government is prepared to address any disruptions with full legal force.
He also encouraged voters to cast their ballots confidently and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Ribadu highlighted the crucial role of security forces and election officials in protecting the integrity of the election process and ensuring that every vote is counted.
Police Commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo, representing Inspector General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun, assured the public that the police are taking all necessary measures to ensure a peaceful election. He emphasized that the police, in coordination with other security agencies, are prepared to handle any challenges and prevent non-state actors from interfering with the electoral process. Ogunlowo reaffirmed the police’s commitment to ensuring that the elections in both states are conducted in an orderly and peaceful manner.
