As the countdown to the highly anticipated governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States draws closer, with only 37 days left for Edo and 93 days for Ondo, there is heightened attention on ensuring peaceful and transparent processes.
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has called for increased vigilance from security agencies to address any potential threats that could disrupt the elections. He emphasized the need for all involved parties to work in unison to ensure that these elections proceed smoothly without violence or unrest.
The INEC Chairman delivered this critical message during the third Quarterly Consultative Meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), which took place at the INEC Headquarters in Abuja. The meeting served as a platform for various security agencies to coordinate their efforts and plan for the upcoming elections.
At the event, Prof. Yakubu reminded the security agencies that political campaigns by various parties are currently in full swing. This period, as he noted, is often marked by increased tension and anxiety about the security situation in the states holding elections. “This is usually a time of concern and anxiety about security, as political parties canvass for votes,” he stated. Prof. Yakubu added that the nature of political campaigns often sets the tone for the elections themselves. “A peaceful campaign often heralds a peaceful election,” he remarked, urging political parties, candidates, and their supporters to maintain peace as the election day approaches. He advised political spokespeople to avoid inflammatory language and rhetoric that could heighten tensions during this sensitive period.
In addressing the security agencies directly, Prof. Yakubu stressed that this was a crucial period to remain vigilant and ensure that no threats, whether real or potential, are allowed to disrupt the election process. “This is the time to be more vigilant. You should leave no stone unturned in dealing with any real or potential threat to the conduct of peaceful and transparent elections,” he charged the ICCES members. Concerns had already been raised about the possibility of disruptions by both state and non-state actors. It was important, he said, to ensure that all election-related activities—from the training of election officials to the logistics of personnel and materials—are not hindered in any way.
One of the key points Prof. Yakubu emphasized was the need for security agents to adhere strictly to their codes of conduct while performing their duties. His message to the security personnel was clear: “All your personnel should continue to abide by the code and conduct and rules of engagement for security personnel on electoral duty.” By sticking to the rules, the security forces would help ensure that the elections are not only peaceful but also fair and transparent.
Adding to the conversation on election security, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, underscored the importance of maintaining peace during the election process. In a message delivered by Hassan Abdullahi, the Director of Internal Security at the Office of the NSA, Mallam Ribadu warned that any attempt to interfere with or disrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections would be treated as an attack on the democratic values of the nation. “We want to reassure you, that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to peaceful election is unwavering,” he stated. This strong message from the NSA emphasized that anyone attempting to disrupt the elections would face serious consequences, as the government is committed to defending the integrity of the polls. Ribadu further assured the public that the security agencies are fully prepared to take swift and decisive action against anyone seeking to undermine the election process.
In his address, Mallam Ribadu encouraged the citizens of Edo State to support security efforts by reporting any suspicious activities they observe. He reassured them that their right to vote in a peaceful and secure environment would be protected. To the security forces and election officials, Ribadu emphasized their critical role in safeguarding the democratic process. He urged them to maintain their integrity and ensure that every ballot is protected and that every voter feels safe to participate in the elections. His message resonated as a call to action for those in charge of maintaining law and order during the polls.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, also shared his views on the upcoming elections through a representative, Commissioner of Police Lanre Ogunlowo. He specifically addressed the threat posed by non-state actors who may be planning to disrupt the election process. In his statement, IGP Egbetokun urged such groups to reconsider their plans, warning that the security agencies are fully prepared to deal with any attempts to destabilize the elections. As the Nigeria Police are tasked with coordinating the efforts of other security agencies during the elections, IGP Egbetokun affirmed that the police force is ready to work closely with the ICCES members to ensure peaceful and orderly elections in both Edo and Ondo States.
The IGP also reassured the voting public that security agencies are committed to creating a safe environment in which voters can exercise their rights without fear of violence or intimidation. The importance of ensuring that votes are properly counted and that the results reflect the will of the people was central to his message. With the combined efforts of the Nigeria Police and other security agencies, IGP Egbetokun expressed confidence that the elections in Edo and Ondo States would be peaceful and free of disruptions.
The need for collaboration between INEC, the security agencies, and other stakeholders was a recurring theme throughout the meeting. As the countdown to the elections continues, all parties involved are working to address any potential challenges that could arise during the election period. This includes ensuring the proper training of election officials, securing the transportation of election materials, and protecting polling and collation centers from any threats.
