By BVAS and Election Materials Arrive in Ondo LGs; Security Forces Reinforce for Peaceful Poll as PDP, EFCC Urge Vigilance
As Ondo State gears up for its gubernatorial election, security agencies have intensified efforts to ensure a smooth and peaceful voting process across the state. With sensitive materials, including the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), reaching local government areas on Thursday, officials are emphasizing readiness to prevent disruptions.
To secure the borders and potential hotspots, the Defence Headquarters has deployed additional troops to support the Nigeria Police Force. This measure, according to Major General Buba Edward, Director of Defence Media Operations, aims to deter any interference with the electoral process.
Seventeen political parties are participating, but the primary contenders are incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In support of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the military will also assist in transporting election materials, Edward confirmed.
In preparation, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, assessed the readiness of the forces, commending previous efforts in elections like Edo’s and urging professionalism from all security personnel. Musa reminded troops that “elections should not be warfare,” with their role focused on securing a fair environment for the voting public.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has deployed over 22,000 officers and implemented a vehicular movement restriction from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day, allowing only essential services. Security escorts for VIPs are prohibited at polling centers to maintain order. Deputy Inspector-General Sylvester Alabi will oversee election security, supported by senior officers AIG Bennett Igweh and CP Tunji Disu.
In Akure, INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner Oluwatoyin Babalola supervised the distribution of ballot materials from the Central Bank under strict observation from political party representatives and security personnel. Arrangements for remote areas include Navy-provided gunboats to transport materials across challenging terrains.
PDP leaders, including Governors Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and Seyi Makinde (Oyo), rallied support for Ajayi, urging vigilance among voters to defend their choices. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has also issued warnings to vote buyers and sellers, with EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale emphasizing that offenders will be prosecuted.
Amid high anticipation, Ondo State’s registered voter count has risen to over two million. INEC recently announced new additions, reflecting an increase in youth participation, particularly in the 18-35 age range.
This gubernatorial poll promises a close contest, and security forces remain poised to uphold the integrity of the electoral process, with all agencies pledging a peaceful environment for voters on Saturday.
