The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced a three-day training session for security personnel as part of preparations for the upcoming off-cycle governorship election in Ondo State.
Investors King reports that the electoral body is scheduled to conduct the election on November 16
During the opening of the training in Akure, the state capital on Monday the National Commissioner and Chairman, Board of Electoral Institute, Prof Abdullahi Zuru, said the training was opened for security officers from various agencies including the state police command, the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Airforce, the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigerian Immigration Service and the Nigerian Customs Service.
Zuru revealed that off-cycle elections in Nigeria pose more challenges compared to general elections.
He, however, said there is a need for continuous collaboration between INEC and security agencies to tackle the prevailing challenges effectively.
He said, “It is pertinent to remind ourselves that off-cycle elections in Nigeria are inherently more challenging than general elections because it allows political actors to concentrate their human and material resources to circumvent the electoral process.
“So, the INEC and security agencies must continuously enhance collaboration to ensure that the vote of every voter counts and the people of Ondo State decide who governs them through the ballot box.
“This training is, therefore, an opportunity for the commission to further enhance synergy between INEC and the security agencies, and ultimately ensure that a tranquil electoral environment is provided for deployment of electoral materials, equipment and personnel as well as peaceful movement of voters.”
Meanwhile, during the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign flag-off in Ondo West Local Government Area on Saturday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced an increase in the minimum wage for civil servants in the state.
Aiyedatiwa, who is running for office under the APC platform, reaffirmed his commitment to improving the welfare of civil servants and urged residents and citizens to come out in large numbers and vote for him.