Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has expressed optimism regarding the upcoming Ondo State Governorship Election scheduled for November 16. He conveyed his confidence during a visit to the commission’s state headquarters in Akure, where he emphasized the lessons learned from previous elections, particularly the recent governorship election in Edo State, which took place in September. Yakubu pointed out two primary challenges faced during elections: the logistics ensuring that polling units open on time and effective management of results. He reassured voters in Ondo State of improvements in these critical areas, stating that the commission has been working diligently to enhance the overall electoral process.
Yakubu elaborated on the importance of timely logistics and results management, indicating that these aspects directly impact the voter experience and the integrity of the electoral process. His assurance is grounded in the commission’s experience from past elections, where delays and result compilation issues had sometimes marred the credibility of the outcomes. The INEC Chairman’s visit was intended as a preparatory step, enabling a thorough readiness assessment of the Ondo State office ahead of the governorship election. He noted that while positive feedback had been received from the state office in Akure, firsthand observation of operations and conditions was deemed essential for ensuring a successful electoral process.
During his visit, the Chairman planned to engage with various stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, the media, and security agencies. This outreach is part of a broader strategy to foster cooperation and transparency in the electoral process. By involving these groups, Yakubu aims to create a conducive environment for the elections, ensuring that all parties are informed and prepared for the upcoming challenges. Additionally, his itinerary included meetings with INEC staff to further assess their readiness and ability to handle the logistics of the election effectively.
An important aspect of Yakubu’s mission is the mock accreditation of voters, which is scheduled to be conducted in 16 polling units across six local government areas representing the three senatorial zones of Ondo State. This exercise is designed to test the systems in place and facilitate any necessary adjustments before the actual voting day. It also serves as a vital opportunity to simulate real election conditions, allowing both INEC and participants to identify potential challenges and rectify them ahead of time.
The engagement with stakeholders extends to a planned meeting with the National Peace Committee, which will invite all parties involved to sign a national peace accord. This initiative highlights the commitment of INEC and associated organizations to ensure a peaceful electoral environment, reinforcing the importance of fair play and mutual respect among candidates and their supporters. Such efforts aim to mitigate potential violence or disputes that could arise during and after the elections, promoting a more stable political atmosphere as Ondo State approaches the governorship election.
In summary, Yakubu’s proactive approach in preparing for the Ondo State Governorship Election includes strategic assessments, stakeholder engagement, and practical simulations through mock voter accreditation. By addressing logistical challenges and ensuring efficient results management, the INEC aims to conduct a credible and transparent electoral process. The anticipated cooperation from various stakeholders, along with the commitment to peace, underpins the Commission’s goal of improving the democratic experience for voters in Ondo State. As the election date approaches, the emphasis on collaboration and readiness reflects a determination to build on past experiences and deliver a successful electoral outcome.
