Ondo governorship poll: Sensitive materials arrive Akure

In preparation for the upcoming Ondo state governorship election, scheduled for Saturday, November 16, 2024, sensitive election materials have successfully arrived in Akure, the state capital. 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed the arrival on Monday through a statement on its official X (formerly Twitter) page.

INEC disclosed that the materials were transported by the Nigerian Air Force and received by officials of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in Akure. This transfer aligns with the agency’s efforts to ensure a smooth and transparent electoral process.

“Breaking News! Sensitive materials for the Ondo State governorship election, scheduled for Saturday, 16th November 2024, have arrived in Akure, the state capital, and have been received by officials of the Central Bank of Nigeria. The materials were conveyed to Akure by the Nigerian Air Force,” the statement read.

The delivery of these materials marks a critical phase in INEC’s logistical preparations for the election, as sensitive materials—including ballot papers and results sheets—are essential for ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. 

“The involvement of the CBN in receiving these materials is a measure taken by INEC to maintain the security and confidentiality of electoral assets, while the collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force underscores heightened security awareness in the lead-up to the election.

INEC’s public announcement aims to reassure the citizens of Ondo state and other stakeholders of its commitment to a credible, transparent, and violence-free election. 

“Security agencies are expected to intensify their efforts to safeguard both the materials and voters, with extensive measures anticipated at polling units and collation centers across the state on election day.

“This governorship election comes at a time of heightened political activity and keen public interest, as Ondo residents prepare to choose a new leader. INEC has urged all political parties, candidates, and voters to adhere to the rules governing the election to ensure a peaceful and orderly process.

“As the countdown to the election continues, INEC has pledged to provide regular updates on its arrangements and the overall conduct of the election, reaffirming its role in upholding democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria”.