A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Ondo State has expressed strong disapproval over attempts to remove the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, ahead of the state’s upcoming governorship election on November 16.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Comrade Franklin Oloniju, the chairman, voiced concerns regarding a campaign led by political figures aiming to unseat the REC. Oloniju highlighted the risk of unrest and possible election violence that such efforts could ignite, potentially disturbing the peaceful political environment in Ondo.
“We are particularly worried about the ongoing mobilisation against the REC,” Oloniju stated. “This mobilization appears designed to influence the election outcome prematurely and sow seeds of discord that could escalate into violence.”
This controversy follows similar recent political pressures in neighboring Oyo State, where calls for the removal of its REC prompted a swift response from the electoral body. Despite the ongoing criticisms, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has not signaled any plans to alter Mrs. Babalola’s role in Ondo State.
The CSOs urged political leaders and groups to prioritize stability and refrain from actions that could jeopardize the democratic process, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful election.
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