The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared zero tolerance for electoral malpractice in Ondo State, warning politicians and voters that anyone caught buying votes or instigating violence ahead of the 2027 general elections will face the full weight of the law.
Speaking at a crucial stakeholders’ meeting in Akure on Thursday, the Ondo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Mutiu Agboke, emphasized that only votes legally cast and properly counted will determine the winners of the upcoming polls.
Representatives of political parties, security agencies, traditional institutions, religious bodies, members of the National Youth Service Corps, transport unions and other stakeholders involved in the electoral process attended the meeting.
Agboke described credible elections as a collective responsibility, noting that security agencies, traditional rulers and transport unions had important roles to play in protecting voters, electoral officials and election materials.
The REC assured stakeholders that INEC would remain neutral and transparent throughout the electoral process, warning against partisan conduct, vote-buying, intimidation and other practices that could compromise the 2027 elections.
“We don’t want anybody to engage in violence. Nobody should allow themselves or their wards to be used for violence, and everybody should desist from vote-buying,” Agboke warned.
He assured the public that INEC officials have been thoroughly trained to adhere strictly to the Electoral Act, promising complete neutrality from the commission.
Key Highlights from the Stakeholders’ Engagement:
Zero Tolerance for Cash-for-Votes: INEC is working closely with security agencies to detect and prosecute anyone trading cash for votes at polling units.
Crackdown on Thuggery:
The commission warned youths and political supporters against being used as instruments to disrupt the peaceful voting process.
Traditional Support: Prominent traditional rulers, including the Ogbolu of Ita-Ogbolu and the Okiti of Iju, have pledged to sensitize their subjects against electoral violence.
Logistics & Security Backing:
Transport unions and security agencies have committed to ensuring the safe and timely movement of personnel and election materials across the state.
