As Ondo State prepares for its off-cycle governorship election, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on political stakeholders and the electorate to uphold peace, decorum, and their civic responsibilities throughout the electoral process. The President emphasized the importance of ensuring that the democratic exercise reflects the true will of the people, reaffirming their right to freely choose their leaders without fear or intimidation.
In a statement, President Tinubu commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its thorough preparations, including the timely distribution of sensitive election materials across all 18 local government areas in the state. He expressed confidence in INEC’s ability to conduct a transparent and credible election that meets the expectations of the people.
The President also lauded the deployment of security personnel to ensure law and order during the election. Acknowledging assurances from the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff, he noted that security forces had been directed to act professionally and strictly adhere to the provisions of the Electoral Act.
Addressing political stakeholders, especially candidates, President Tinubu reminded them that governance is a privilege bestowed by the people and must be earned through a legitimate process. “This right must be respected and not undermined,” he stated, urging all parties to prioritize the collective interest of Nigerians by ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election.
The President underscored the significance of this election in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions, which have been evolving for over 25 years. He called on all citizens to contribute to the consolidation of the nation’s democratic values, emphasizing that peaceful and credible elections are crucial to national progress.
The Ondo governorship election is seen as a litmus test for Nigeria’s commitment to democracy, with many citizens and international observers closely monitoring the process.