INEC Chief Promises Peaceful Elections in Ondo as Parties Prepare to Sign Accord
A crucial step towards ensuring a peaceful Ondo State Governorship Election is underway, with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announcing a Peace Accord signing set for November 8, 2024. All political parties have been invited to participate in this initiative, backed by the National Peace Committee and INEC, to ensure a successful and trouble-free electoral process.
According to INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, the commission has identified potential hotspots in Ondo and has alerted relevant security agencies to facilitate effective conflict mapping. A meeting was held in Abuja, where Yakubu made the announcement. The move is seen as a proactive measure to prevent any potential security concerns.
To further guarantee a smooth electoral process, INEC has planned a final readiness assessment, set to take place next week. This exercise will involve key stakeholders, officials, security agencies, and transport providers. The commission’s goal is to ensure a seamless voting and results compilation process.
Another significant development is the conclusion of the period for collecting Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs). Out of a total of 89,777 PVCs, 64,273 have been distributed, translating to a 71.6% collection rate. INEC Chairman Yakubu has commended civil society organizations (CSOs) for their efforts in mobilizing voters to collect their PVCs and announced that INEC will publish cumulative PVC collection statistics by polling unit on its website.
Yakubu expressed satisfaction with the progress made in the voter accreditation process and result uploading procedures, as well as improvements in media and observer accreditations. To ensure a timely and efficient voting and results management process, INEC is also implementing additional logistical arrangements, particularly with regards to the movement of personnel and materials to both land and riverine areas.
