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The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ondo State, Dr Mutiu Agboke, has called for strengthened collaboration among security agencies to ensure a peaceful and credible conduct of the forthcoming Ondo South Senatorial by-election scheduled for June 20.
Agboke made the appeal during separate courtesy visits to heads of security formations, including the State Security Service and the Nigerian Correctional Service in Akure, the state capital.
The senatorial seat became vacant following the appointment of former occupant, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
Speaking during the visits, Agboke, who recently assumed duty as the 21st REC in the state, emphasised the indispensable role of security agencies in the electoral process, noting that the success of the exercise depends largely on inter-agency cooperation.
He explained that the engagements were aimed at reinforcing public confidence in the electoral body and highlighting that the conduct of elections is a collective responsibility involving multiple stakeholders.
According to him, agencies such as the Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Road Safety Corps, State Security Service, Nigerian Correctional Service, the military, National Orientation Agency, Federal Fire Service, and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission play critical roles in safeguarding the integrity of elections.
The REC stressed that without the active participation of these institutions, the commission would face challenges in delivering a credible poll.
He urged all relevant agencies to be on high alert and adequately prepared ahead of the by-election, assuring residents of Ondo South Senatorial District that the commission would uphold transparency and fairness throughout the process.
Agboke also assured voters that the outcome of the election would reflect the will of the people, adding that every valid vote would count.
In their separate responses, the State Director of the State Security Service, Mr Samaila Sagiru, and the Controller of the Nigerian Correctional Service in Ondo State, Mr Charles Oyewole, pledged their readiness to support the electoral body.
Sagiru reaffirmed the commitment of security agencies to provide a safe environment for both electoral officials and voters, noting that collaboration remains vital to strengthening democratic processes.
Similarly, Oyewole described the by-election as a national assignment requiring the collective effort of all stakeholders, stressing that a secure atmosphere is essential for a hitch-free exercise.
He further warned against electoral malpractice, urging residents to comply with the law and contribute to a peaceful poll.
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