The political landscape in Ondo State is heating up as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gear up for the mock accreditation organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Set to take place on November 6, 2024, this exercise is a critical preparatory step ahead of the gubernatorial election scheduled for November 16. PDP Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kennedy Peretei, emphasized the importance of fairness in the upcoming electoral process. He reiterated the party’s commitment to a thorough election preparation, underscoring that the success of their efforts will ultimately hinge on INEC’s ability to conduct a free, fair, and credible election. He articulated the necessity for the commission to adhere to timelines and professional standards to restore public confidence in the electoral process.
On the other hand, Mr. Steve Otaloro, the Director of Media and Publicity for APC, stated that the ruling party is actively engaging with the electorate as part of their campaign efforts. He highlighted the importance of clear communication and respect during the electoral process, promoting a peaceful atmosphere for voters. The strategy involves direct outreach, including door-to-door education about the elections, showcasing the party’s logo, and advocating for enhanced security measures in collaboration with law enforcement agencies. Otaloro echoed the need for smooth logistics from INEC to ensure that the mock election operates seamlessly, reflecting the party’s readiness and commitment to a successful election.
The mock accreditation itself will serve to test the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) technology that INEC intends to use during the upcoming gubernatorial election. The exercise is designed to ensure that the processes, including the real-time transmission of results via the INEC Result Viewing portal, function efficiently ahead of the actual voting day. According to Sam Olumekun, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, this mock exercise is crucial for identifying potential challenges that may arise during the real election and addressing them in advance. Registered voters from designated polling units are encouraged to participate, allowing them to familiarize themselves with the voting procedures.
The mock accreditation will occur from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM in 12 selected polling units across six local government areas in Ondo State, encompassing all three senatorial districts. This targeted approach to accreditation is important for assessing both the technology and the overall electoral process. Specific locations have been outlined for the event, with Akure South and Idanre in Ondo Central, Owo and Akoko South West in Ondo North, and Odigbo and Okitipupa in Ondo South being key areas where the exercise will take place. This strategic distribution is intended to facilitate access and participation from voters across the state.
For Ondo Central, designated polling locations include Alagbaka Primary School and Ijapo High School in Akure South, along with Our Saviour Primary School and an open space beside the Teaching Service Commission office in Idanre. In Ondo North, voters in Owo will visit the Methodist Primary School and Imade College Gate, while Akoko South West will have facilities at an open space in Ago Ajayi and L.A. Primary School, Oba. In Ondo South, St. John’s Primary School and Isero Grammar School are the chosen venues in Odigbo, with Okitipupa’s options being the open space on Oladipupo Lebi Street and the Baptist Primary School, Ode Aye. This meticulous planning illustrates INEC’s commitment to ensuring that the mock accreditation runs smoothly and allows for thorough testing of the electoral technology.
Olumekun clarified that participation in the mock accreditation would be limited to registered voters possessing their Permanent Voter Cards from the selected units. This measure aims to maintain the integrity of the exercise and ensure that it serves its purpose effectively. By restricting participation to designated polling units, INEC is not only enhancing security but also enabling focused monitoring of the accreditation process and the operational effectiveness of the BVAS. The emphasis on proper preparation and execution is critical as both parties seek to ensure that the electorate’s trust in the electoral process is strengthened.
As the date for the mock accreditation approaches, the readiness demonstrated by the APC and PDP highlights the high stakes of the upcoming Ondo State governorship election. Voter engagement, adherence to electoral standards, and effective use of technology are key themes that each party is focused on as they prepare for the exercise. The outcome of this mock accreditation, along with the governor election itself, will likely play a significant role in shaping the political environment in Ondo State, making it crucial for both INEC and the competing parties to prioritize transparency, fairness, and efficiency throughout the electoral timeline. In this context, the mock accreditation serves as a vital precursor, setting the stage for the successful conduct of the actual elections, and potentially influencing future voter participation in Nigeria’s democratic processes.
