The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, has expressed satisfaction with the readiness of INEC offices in Akure North and Akure South Local Government Areas ahead of the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State.
Speaking during his Tuesday inspection of the offices, Yakubu praised the level of preparation, calling it “impressive.”
“This level of readiness is rarely achieved at this stage,” he remarked, noting that essential items have already arrived in the state. “We’ve inspected kit bags, checked crucial materials, and ensured that all essentials are in place. Sensitive materials, like ballot papers and result sheets, will be inspected on Wednesday.”
Yakubu emphasised a transparent process leading up to election day, highlighting that stakeholders—including candidates, party agents, observers, media, and security agencies—will participate in the inspection of sensitive materials.
Following this, INEC will prioritize distributing materials to distant local governments first.
“We’ll start moving materials to LGAs on Thursday, beginning with the farthest and ending with Akure South,” he stated. “By Friday, distribution to wards and Registration Area Centers (RACs) will ensure polling units are ready for Saturday morning.”
Reflecting on previous elections, Yakubu noted areas targeted for improvement, especially in logistics and result management. “Every election provides lessons,” he said.
“Nigerians have asked for better logistics to open polling units promptly and improved transparency in result management, and you’ll see significant advancements in these areas.”
He also addressed the specific logistical challenges in riverine areas like Ese-Odo and Ilaje. To safeguard materials transported by boat, he shared that sensitive items would be wrapped in waterproof polythene to prevent loss in case of water incidents.
On security, Yakubu underscored the importance of protecting officials, especially in challenging terrains. “All officials in riverine areas will have life vests,” he assured, reiterating INEC’s commitment to safe elections across the state.
Concluding his readiness assessment, Yakubu met with the Ondo State chapter of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) to review security measures aimed at ensuring a peaceful voting environment.
As election day nears, INEC’s comprehensive preparations in Ondo State reflect the Commission’s commitment to a transparent, timely, and secure electoral process.
