Ahead of the governorship election in Ondo State, scheduled for Saturday, November 16, 2024, security agencies and stakeholders have intensified efforts to ensure a peaceful and transparent electoral process. The election, featuring 17 political parties, is anticipated to be a close contest between the incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Security Measures Strengthened

The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the deployment of troops to key border areas and potential flashpoints. According to Major General Buba Edward, the military’s presence aims to deter troublemakers, assist the Nigeria Police Force, and provide security for Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) personnel and materials.

Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has mobilized 22,239 officers to safeguard polling units, maintain peace, and enforce the restriction of vehicular movement from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day. Essential services like ambulances, fire services, and accredited media will be exempt from this restriction.

Military and Police Collaboration

Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa visited Ondo to assess the readiness of security forces. He emphasized professionalism, urging security personnel to protect citizens and electoral materials without intimidation. “An election is not warfare,” Musa remarked, commending the military’s role in previous elections and expressing confidence in their preparedness for Ondo’s polls.

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Deputy Inspector-General of Police Sylvester Alabi, leading the police security operations, assured that officers are equipped to handle potential threats. He also outlined a comprehensive plan involving multiple security agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

INEC Logistics in Place

INEC has distributed sensitive election materials, including ballot papers, to all 18 local government areas in the state. The Resident Electoral Commissioner, Oluwatoyin Babalola, assured stakeholders of timely delivery to polling units, supported by the Nigerian Navy’s gunboats for riverine areas.

The electoral body reported that Ondo now has 2,053,061 registered voters, reflecting a 3% increase since the 2023 general elections. Youths aged 18-35 account for 35.41% of the electorate.

Vote-Buying Warning and Monitoring

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a stern warning against vote-buying, while the Police Service Commission (PSC) deployed monitors to ensure officers maintain professionalism. PSC Chairman DIG Hashimu Argungu (retd.) stressed the importance of accountability to preserve the election’s integrity.

PDP Mobilization and APC Confidence

Prominent PDP leaders have urged voters to defend their ballots amid fears of vote manipulation. On the other hand, APC leaders, including Ade Adetimehin, praised INEC for its transparent preparations and expressed optimism about the party’s chances.