Ondo 2024: INEC warns political parties against issuing unofficial tags to agents

Ondo 2024: INEC warns political parties against issuing unofficial tags to agents

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja 

With just a few days until the pivotal Ondo State governorship election, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, addressed stakeholders at a meeting in Akure on Thursday, stressing the importance of maintaining order and compliance among political parties. 

Addressing stakeholders ahead of the election set for Saturday, November 16, 2024, Professor Yakubu highlighted the remaining activities leading up to the election, including the final campaign period, which will conclude at midnight on Thursday, November 14. He reassured stakeholders of INEC’s preparedness, stating, “I want to assure you that INEC is ready for the election.”

The INEC Chairman reminded political parties of their responsibilities, specifically about the issuance of unofficial tags to their agents. He stated, “The practice of issuing party tags without name, photograph or location of posting to party agents must stop,” warning that impersonation of agents can lead to confusion and disruption. He urged parties to utilize the accredited tags issued by INEC, which now feature a QR code for easier identification.

He emphasized that the upcoming Ondo election is not only of national significance but also garnering global attention. According to him, INEC has accredited 111 domestic and international organizations tasked with deploying over 3,500 observers, alongside nearly 700 media personnel.

 “This is the largest number of journalists for any off-cycle governorship election in Nigeria,” he noted, highlighting the transparency of the electoral process.

Yakubu reiterated INEC’s commitment to ensuring a credible election through the deployment of technological tools such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). He reported that a successful mock accreditation was conducted in twelve polling units, stating, “The result can be viewed on the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal.” However, he clarified that the machines used for the mock exercise would not be used on Election Day, affirming that adequate machines have been set apart for the actual election.

On security matters, he reiterated the necessity for safety during the election. “We have given our assurances and received necessary support from relevant agencies for the provision of security during the election,” he said, adding that further details would be shared by the Inspector-General of Police’s representative.

Looking ahead, Professor Yakubu invited all stakeholders to participate in the signing of a Peace Accord on Friday, November 8, which will be presided over by former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar. He encouraged adherence to the terms of the Accord to promote a peaceful election atmosphere.

As the meeting concluded, Yakubu reminded stakeholders, “Election is a multi-stakeholder activity. Our role has to be complemented by all stakeholders.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration among INEC, political parties, and security agencies to ensure the success of the upcoming election. 

He therefore called on political parties and their supporters to engage in peaceful conduct as they approach the crucial electoral process.