Nigerian Police Pledge to Ensure Fair Ondo State Governorship Election
The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has vowed to guarantee a fair and transparent governorship election in Ondo State, scheduled for November 16th, 2024. In a meeting with senior police officers, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun emphasized the importance of impartiality, professionalism, and high standards of conduct to safeguard democracy.
Egbetokun stressed that rigorous training sessions will be conducted to prepare police personnel for their duties, focusing on conflict resolution and maintaining public order during the elections. He also announced that the senior police officers’ conference and retreat will take place from November 25th to 28th, 2024, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The IGP highlighted the value of camaraderie, teamwork, and shared purpose within the Force, emphasizing the need for collaboration with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and community stakeholders to achieve the nation’s common goals. He reiterated the NPF’s commitment to transparency and effective communication with the public, ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and maintaining law and order across the country.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that collection of Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) by registered voters will commence on Thursday. The INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Sam Olumekun, announced that 89,777 new PVCs were printed and delivered to the Akure office, including 58,708 new voters and 31,069 individuals who applied for transfers, updates, or replacements of lost and damaged PVCs. PVC collection will be available at two levels across 221 centers in the state.
The NPF’s commitment to a free and fair election in Ondo State comes amid concerns over the forthcoming poll. The announcement by the INEC and the NPF’s assurances will likely ease some of these concerns, but it remains to be seen how the election will play out in the coming weeks.
