President Bola Tinubu has called on all political stakeholders and voters in Ondo State to uphold peace and fulfill their civic duties without fear as the state prepares for its off-cycle governorship election.
Scheduled for Saturday, November 16, 2024, the election will take place across all 18 Local Government Areas of the state.
The President’s appeal was conveyed in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Friday. Tinubu stressed the importance of ensuring that the election reflects the true will of the people.
“As Ondo State prepares for its off-cycle governorship election, President Bola Tinubu urges all political stakeholders and the electorate to uphold peace and decorum, and fulfil their civic responsibilities without fear before or after the elections,” the statement read.
The President added, “President Tinubu anticipates a democratic process in the state that will genuinely reflect the people’s will and power to freely choose their leaders.”
Commendation for INEC and Security Agencies
President Tinubu also praised the Independent National Electoral Commission for its meticulous preparations, including the timely distribution of sensitive materials to all local government areas.
“The President commends the Independent National Electoral Commission for its diligent preparations for the election, particularly its timely distribution of sensitive materials across all 18 local government areas in the state,” the statement noted.
He further lauded the deployment of security personnel to maintain peace and order, citing assurances from the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff that officers would act professionally and in line with the Electoral Act.
“He appreciates the assurances from the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff that the personnel will act professionally and adhere to the provisions of the Electoral Act to ensure a credible electoral process,” the statement added.
Reminder to Political Stakeholders
President Tinubu reminded candidates and political actors that governance is a privilege granted by the people, urging them to respect this right.
“President Tinubu reminds all political stakeholders, especially the candidates, that the people bestow the privilege to govern, and this right must be respected and not undermined. He emphasises that it is in the best interest of all Nigerians to ensure a free and fair election and consolidate our over 25 years of democratic governance,” the statement emphasized.
Observations at INEC Distribution Points
The PUNCH reported that during the distribution of sensitive materials, representatives of political parties and security agencies, including the Nigeria Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, were present to monitor the process.
With these preparations, all eyes are on Ondo State as it gears up for a crucial democratic exercise that many hope will serve as a model for electoral integrity and peaceful participation.
