The Independent National Electoral Commission has begun distributing sensitive materials to all 18 local government areas of Ondo State ahead of the governorship election scheduled for November 16, 2024.
The exercise, supervised by the Ondo State Resident Electoral Commissioner Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, took place at the Central Bank of Nigeria branch in Akure on Thursday.
Addressing stakeholders during the distribution, Babalola reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and credible electoral process.
She highlighted that the early deployment of materials underscores the commission’s readiness to conduct a free, fair, and transparent election.
According to Babalola, INEC has arranged for simultaneous delivery to all local government areas to avoid delays. Sensitive materials were loaded onto vehicles in the presence of political party representatives, election observers, and security personnel to ensure transparency.
“The farthest local governments have already begun their journey. Ilaje and Ese-Odo have left, while Okitipupa and Irele are loading. Other areas like Akoko North-East, Akoko South-West, and Owo are ready to depart,” she explained.
For riverine communities such as Ilaje and Ese-Odo, where access is challenging, boats have been arranged to transport personnel and election materials.
Babalola added that the Nigerian Navy is providing gunboats to enhance security for the waterborne operations.
“In areas with difficult terrain, we have alternative arrangements where vehicles will transport materials to the closest accessible points, and other means will take over from there,” she assured.
The REC called on political parties and their supporters to maintain peace during and after the election. She urged all stakeholders to eschew violence and ensure that the election process remains credible and transparent.
“We appeal to all parties to put the interest of Ondo State first. Let’s work together to ensure a peaceful election that reflects the will of the people,” Babalola stated.
The commission also emphasized the involvement of security agencies to safeguard the electoral process. Observers have expressed optimism about the measures in place, noting that the comprehensive logistics plan demonstrates INEC’s preparedness.
