Bye-Election Underway In Akure

All is now set for the bye-election into the Akure North/Akure South Federal constituency in Ondo State with the distribution of sensitive materials by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC .

The election materials included ballot papers, voting results, replacement and declaration sheets, all transported to the two local governments.

During the distribution in Akure, INEC National Commissioner in charge of Southwest, Professor Kunle Ajayi, explained that the commission had deployed its personnel to ensure a credible and acceptable process.

Professor Ajayi urged eligible voters to come out enmasse and exercise their voting rights. 

Also speaking, the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, Ambassador Rufus Akeju noted, that with the level of arrangements already in place by INEC, it was certain that the election would not only be free and fair but will be conclusive.

Talking about the participating political parties, the state’s Chairman of the National Rescue Movement, Mr Olajenyo Ataunoko, APC Central Senatorial Chairman, Festus Aregbesola and the PDP Akure South Agent, Mr Taiwo Akintade said they were all prepared for the bye-election.

They urged INEC and security agents to remain neutral throughout the exercise. 

Also speaking with Radio Nigeria, two of the electorate, Mrs Ibukun Adeolu and Ayo Micheal showed great enthusiasm towards the bye-election. 

Meanwhile, the police in ondo state have said adequate number of personnel had been deployed for the exercise in the two local governments of Akure South and Akure North to ensure a violence free exercise.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs Funmi Odunlami maintained that there would be restriction of movement between eight o clock in the morning and three o clock in the afternoon within the two council areas.

 Seven political parties are participating in the bye-election which became necessary following the death of the lawmaker representing Akure North and South Federal Constituency, Mr Adedayo Omolafe in August, last year.

John Ebiofinni