Edo Guber election:.INEC Chairman meets security agencies, calls for security alert
By JOHN ONAH, Abuja-
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has called on security agencies to heighten their vigilance as the gubernatorial elections in Edo and Ondo States approach.
Speaking at the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) meeting held at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, Professor Yakubu emphasized the critical role of security personnel in ensuring hitch elections.
Professor Yakubu emphasised the importance of collaboration between INEC and security agencies at all levels and appreciated the support provided by security personnel during the recent Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise and stressed the need for continued vigilance as election day nears.
“You should leave no stone unturned in dealing with any real or potential threat to the conduct of peaceful and transparent elections,” Yakubu stated.
According to him, Edo and Ondo States have seen a notable increase in registered voters, with Edo State now boasting 2,629,025 voters, a 4.9% increase from the 2023 General Election. Ondo State has 2,053,061 registered voters, a 3.0% increase. Young and middle-aged voters (18-49 years old) make up a significant portion of the electorate, accounting for 72.2% in Edo and 70.5% in Ondo. Students represent 33.4% of the voters in these states.
Seventeen political parties are fielding 34 governorship candidates and their running mates in each state, with campaigns already in full swing. Professor Yakubu urged political parties and candidates to maintain peace and avoid negative rhetoric that could incite violence. “A peaceful campaign often heralds a peaceful election,” he noted.
On his part, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu who is also the Co-Chair of ICCES, represented by Hassan Y Abdullahi, Director, Internal Security, warned that any attempt to undermine, interfere with, or disrupt the peaceful conduct of the polls would be viewed as an assault on the very essence of our democratic values.
” We want to reassure you, that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to peaceful election is unwavering.
Those planning to disrupt the elections should not mistake the current administration’s commitment to peace for weakness. We will defend the integrity of the polls using every lawful means at our disposal, and anyone attempting to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections will face the full force of the law. Law enforcement agencies are on high alert and ready to swiftly and decisively deal with anyone trying to undermine the polls”, he said.
He encouraged voters in Edo State, to vote confidently, knowing that the government is standing with them and is determined to protect their voices.
“Your role in promptly reporting any suspicious activities or threats to the authorities is crucial. Together, our vigilance and unity will prevent any attempts to undermine the polls. To our security forces and election officials, your dedication and integrity are crucial. As the guardians of our democracy, you must ensure that every ballot is protected, every voter feels safe, and the sanctity of the election is upheld”, he added.