The newly deployed Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ondo State, Dr Mutiu Agboke, has issued a stern warning to political actors against spreading false information, while affirming that his office will operate with maximum transparency and accessibility.
Commitment to Transparency
During a visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State council, Dr Agboke emphasized that secrecy would have no place under his administration. He stated that the electoral body would welcome questions and complaints from all stakeholders in the state.
“My doors are open for questions and clarifications. For those who know me very well, I do not shy away from questions and clarifications because we don’t have anything to hide. So, we must work together to strengthen democracy and ensure public confidence in the electoral process,” the REC said.
Call for Collective Responsibility
Dr Agboke stressed that the success of any election hinges on collective responsibility. He noted that cooperation among political parties, security operatives, civil society, the media, and the electorate is non-negotiable for delivering credible polls. Flanked by top management staff of the commission, he reaffirmed that all activities would strictly adhere to the Electoral Act and the constitution.
Preparations for Upcoming By-Election
Looking ahead to the by-election for the Southern Senatorial District, scheduled for June 20, the REC confirmed that the commission has commenced final preparations. He assured that the exercise would be free, fair, transparent, and entirely hitch-free, adding that political parties have already been duly notified of the process.
Voter Registration Drive
Dr Agboke also urged active participation in the third phase of the continuous voter registration (CVR). He highlighted that while online pre-registration is ongoing, physical registration has been available since August of last year, offering ample opportunity for eligible voters to acquire their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 elections.
Appeal for Issue-Based Politics
The REC urged political actors to channel their grievances and enquiries through official channels rather than resorting to public misinformation. He called on all stakeholders to embrace peaceful and issue-based politicking, stating that inflammatory statements could overheat the polity and undermine the integrity of elections.
Media Support Pledged
In his remarks, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Leke Adegbite, pledged the union’s full support for the commission. He assured the REC that journalists in the state would be mobilized to provide adequate, balanced, and positive coverage of INEC’s activities, particularly as the country marches toward the 2027 general elections.
