3 hours ago
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The Electoral Hub has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its diligent efforts in organising the Ondo gubernatorial polls.
The Director, IRIAD-The Electoral Hub, Princess Hamman-Obels, in it post-election press statement observed that the professionalism displayed throughout the electoral process reflects a commitment to upholding democratic values and ensuring that the voices of the citizens are heard.
She said, “In particular, we would like to highlight the exemplary leadership of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola.
“Her adept management of the electoral process has ensured a smooth operation and exemplified the powerful impact of women in leadership roles in governance and electoral management.
” Mrs. Babalola’s performance has demonstrated what we proudly call “Black Woman Magic,” showcasing how women can lead effectively in high-stakes environments, breaking barriers and setting new standards for future elections.
“The Ondo governorship election was characterized by several notable improvements compared to previous elections which all contributed to the integrity of the election.
” One such improvement is the speed of the entire electoral period process. Notably, the election which started at 8.30am on November 16, 2024 ended at about 3pm on November 17, 2024 with the final collation, announcement of results, and declaration of a winner by Professor Olayemi Durotimi Akinwunmi, the State Collation and Returning Officer.”
On compliance with election timetable and schedule, she said: “The Commission executed all activities as outlined in its timetable and schedule for the election seamlessly and timely, complying with the legal frameworks for election.
“This level of compliance demonstrates INEC’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.
“On Registration Area Centres (RACs): As part of our pre-election observation process, we assessed the RACs’ readiness for election.
“This is because we recognize that the readiness of RACs before election day has a major impact on poll schedule from opening to closing and results management process.
“Our observation showed that RACs were 100% activated and operational with electoral materials and personnel on ground with more than 75% activated before 7pm on Friday November 15, 2024 from the RACs visited.
“This high preparedness rate across most visited centers indicates a generally high level of electoral readiness.
“On Electoral Logistics: In observing the electoral process, we found good improvement in electoral logistics. Notably, on election day, majority of polling units opened promptly at 8:30 AM.
” This demonstrates INEC’s commitment to improvements and maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. It also shows better performance compared to previous elections from State transport providers such as the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN).
“On Electoral Inclusivity: We observed the participation of the aged, youth and women, including special groups such as pregnant women and those with infants.
“They were also prioritized in accordance with provisions of INEC guidelines and regulations. Also, in compliance with Section 54 of the Electoral Act 2022 which provides for appropriate treatment for voters with disability (VWD) such as providing braille and magnifying glasses at PUs.
“On Ad-hoc Staff Performance: We observed a high level of good conduct by ad- hoc staff in the election (e.g. presiding officers -NYSC and LGA collation officers -Lecturers), as they were able to carry out duties expected of them in accordance with the rules and regulations for the conduct of the election and in good time.
“This testifies to the training and retraining that INEC informed stakeholders was done,” she said.
