Ondo poll: INEC begins training for security personnel

With just a month to the governorship election in Ondo State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has initiated a three-day training session for security personnel involved in the upcoming off-cycle poll.

The training includes members from various agencies, such as the state police command, the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Air Force, the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigerian Immigration Service, and the Nigerian Customs Service.

At the training’s opening in Akure on Monday, Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Board of the Electoral Institute, emphasized the importance of collaboration between INEC and security agencies to protect voters and their votes.

He stated, “Off-cycle elections in Nigeria present unique challenges, as political actors can focus their resources to manipulate the electoral process.

Therefore, INEC and security agencies must enhance their collaboration to ensure that every vote counts and that the people of Ondo State can choose their leaders through the ballot box.”

Zuru highlighted that the training aims to strengthen the partnership between INEC and security agencies, ensuring a secure environment for the deployment of electoral materials and the movement of voters.

He praised the security agencies for their ongoing efforts to safeguard citizens’ lives and property.

Dr. Sa’ad Idris, Director-General of the Electoral Institute, underscored the critical role of security in protecting electoral personnel, locations, and processes.

He described the security personnel as the guardians of democracy and stressed that their skills and professionalism are vital for maintaining peace and fairness throughout the election.

During the training, security personnel will gain essential knowledge and best practices to effectively carry out their responsibilities.