Political parties and governorship candidates in Ondo State have pledged to maintain peace in the upcoming election by signing a peace accord on November 8, 2024. The accord was organized by the National Peace Committee, chaired by former Head of State, Abdulsalam Abubakar, at the International Culture and Event Centre in Akure.
Top parties, including the All Progressives Congress, Peoples Democratic Party, Labour Party, and Zenith Labour Party, attended the event. Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, emphasized the importance of the candidates’ commitment to peace, urging them to ensure their supporters abide by the accord’s terms.
Yakubu outlined steps taken to improve Election Day logistics, especially for riverine areas in Ese Odo and Ilaje, where boats will aid in the transport of voting materials and personnel. The preparation includes over 17,000 officials and extensive transport planning to reach 4,154 voting and collation locations.
The Inspector General of Police, represented by Deputy Inspector General Sylvester Abiodun, confirmed the deployment of over 35,000 officers to secure all 18 local government areas, supported by additional personnel from other security agencies, totaling 43,157 staff. This measure aims to maintain order, with at least four officers assigned per polling unit.
The NPC chairperson reminded candidates to embrace sportsmanship and shun violence, commending the Inter-agency Consultative Committee on Election Security for their peacekeeping efforts.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, representing the APC and speaking for the candidates, pledged to adhere to election laws and promote peace throughout the election period. He encouraged all parties to foster a calm environment during and after the polls.
