Ondo Guber Poll: INEC releases Voter Register to political parties

Political parties participating in the upcoming November 16 governorship election in Ondo State have been handed copies of the voter register, as stipulated by section 10(4) of the Electoral Act, 2022.

Prof. Kunle Ajayi, the Supervising National Commissioner for Ondo, Ogun, and Osun States, revealed that the total number of registered voters following the Continuous Voter Registration and clean-up exercise stands at 2,053,061.

Ajayi emphasized the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) commitment to ensuring a free, fair, credible, and inclusive election. He also urged political parties to mobilize their supporters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in preparation for the polls.

Ajayi said: “Without the PVC, nobody would be allowed to vote. There will be no collection by proxy as it is against the law, and anybody found with more than one voter’s card belonging to the person shall be made to face the full extent of the law.

“The commission is keen on enhancing its inclusive election management capacity at all levels. As such, permit me to use this opportunity to call on all Persons With Disability (PWD), PWD-focused CSOs, and groups to encourage any PWD to come out and collect their PVCs as the commission has made adequate provision for assistive devices which would ensure a seamless voting experience for all PWDs in the forthcoming Ondo Governorship Election.”

Ondo REC, Mrs. Babalola Oluwatoyin, encouraged political parties to complement the Commission’s efforts in voter education and sensitization drive to ensure voters participate in the electoral process in large numbers, free from fear and undue influence.

She urged political parties and candidates contesting the governorship election to operate within the confines of the law and engage the electorate peacefully and respectfully.

“The publication and presentation of the Voter Register ensure transparency and establish a level playing field for all participants. I call on all stakeholders – civil society organizations, the media, and the electorate – to remain vigilant and committed to safeguarding the integrity of this process.

“The publication of the Voters Registers is only the beginning. We must work together to ensure that every stage of this election is conducted with the highest standards of fairness and transparency.”