The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a mock accreditation exercise ahead of the upcoming Ondo State governorship election, scheduled for November 16, 2024. This preparatory activity aims to evaluate the functionality of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the real-time result upload capabilities to the INEC Result Viewing Portal. Scheduled for November 6, 2024, the mock exercise will run from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM, allowing registered voters in selected polling units to participate. Sam Olumekun, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, encouraged voter participation to ensure a smooth electoral process.
The mock accreditation will occur in 12 designated polling units across six Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Ondo State, strategically spread across the three senatorial districts: Ondo Central, Ondo North, and Ondo South. Each district has been assigned specific locations where the exercise will be conducted, ensuring representation from various geographical areas within the state. This approach reflects INEC’s commitment to a transparent and efficient electoral process, emphasizing the need for preparedness ahead of the election day.
In Ondo Central Senatorial District, the mock exercise will take place in Akure South and Idanre LGAs. Notable centers in Akure South include Alagbaka Primary School and Ijapo High School, while Idanre LG boasts Our Saviour Primary School and other accessible venues. The Ondo North District will see the accreditation at Methodist Primary School and Imade College Gate in Owo, as well as locations in Akoko South West LG such as the open space at Ago Ajayi and L.A. Primary School. Lastly, in the Ondo South District, the selected centers for Odigbo include St John’s Primary School and Isero Grammar School, with Okitipupa having venues like the open space at Oladipupo Lebi Street and Baptist Primary School.
Olumekun stressed that participation will be limited to registered voters holding Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) from these designated units, reinforcing the importance of local involvement in the electoral process. No individual from outside the selected polling units will be allowed to partake in the mock accreditation. This stipulation ensures that the exercise focuses on familiarizing voters within the chosen locations with the BVAS technology, thereby improving their readiness for the actual voting process.
Thus far, approximately 55,859 PVCs have been collected by new registrants in Ondo State, indicating a growing interest in the electoral process. The active engagement of voters in the mock exercise is pivotal to achieving a seamless operation on the election day. By testing technological efficiency and user engagement, INEC aims to address potential challenges beforehand, fostering confidence among the electorate.
In conclusion, INEC’s initiative for a mock accreditation exercise ahead of the Ondo State governorship election underscores its dedication to enhancing the electoral process through technology and community participation. By conducting this rehearsal, INEC not only seeks to refine its systems but also actively engages with the electorate, encouraging them to take ownership of the voting process. As the November election date approaches, such preparatory measures will play a crucial role in ensuring a well-run and credible electoral outcome in Ondo State.
