Ondo 2024: Prioritize peace, security – Aiyedatiwa tells stakeholders
The governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called on all stakeholders to prioritize peace and security as the state prepares for the November 16 gubernatorial election.
He made this appeal during the Election Peace and Security Summit 2024, themed “Building Trust and Preventing Violence in Ondo State 2024 Governorship Election,” on Tuesday at the international event center the dome, Akure, the governor urged political parties, security agencies, and citizens to collaborate in ensuring a peaceful, credible, and transparent election.
In his address, Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining peace, stating, “A successful election is not the sole responsibility of the government or the security agencies. It requires the full commitment and cooperation of every stakeholder, including political actors, security personnel, traditional rulers, community leaders, and most importantly, the citizens of this state. We must build trust among ourselves and work together to prevent violence and uphold the principles of democracy. This election is about the future of Ondo State, and we must ensure that it reflects the will of the people in a peaceful manner.”
The governor further expressed his appreciation to the organizers of the summit for their efforts in educating the public on the importance of peace, especially as the election approaches. “I commend the organizers of this summit for taking the initiative to enlighten our people on the importance of peace at this critical time. As we all know, there is a general saying that no election is 100% free and fair, but I want to assure you that, as a party and as people under my leadership, I will do everything in my power to ensure that this election will be free, fair, and transparent.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa also addressed the issue of online conduct, urging his political opponents to refrain from malicious activities. “I plead with other political opponents to stop the blackmail and slander of other candidates on social media. This only serves to fuel division and tension. Let us maintain peace, be transparent in our campaigns, and engage in meaningful discourse. We must move away from hate speech, propaganda, and actions that seek to undermine the integrity of our democracy,” he said.
The governor emphasized that peace is essential for development, adding, “Violence, disruption, and unrest will not only mar the election process but will also set our state back in terms of progress and stability. We must understand that the security of this state, both during and after the election, lies in our hands. I call on everyone, especially political leaders and their supporters, to embrace peace and avoid actions that could incite violence. Let us respect the democratic process and ensure that this election is a model for others to follow.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa appealed directly to political leaders to prioritize the stability and future of the state. He said, “As leaders, we have a duty to guide our people toward a peaceful and prosperous future. The election is not a do-or-die affair; it is a democratic process meant to reflect the wishes of the people. I urge all candidates and political actors to place the interests of the people of Ondo State above personal ambition. Let us work together to ensure that Ondo remains a beacon of peace and progress.”
Earlier in his lecture, Professor Adetunji Ogunyomi of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, urged politicians to embed the dividends of democracy into their policies. He also advised INEC to ensure timely distribution of both sensitive and non-sensitive materials at polling stations.
Professor Ogunyomi further stressed the need to build trust in the security system and to ensure the protection of INEC officials during elections.
Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, represented by AIG Abiodun Ashabi, along with Ondo State Police Commissioner Mr. Abayomi Oladipupo and NSCDC Commandant Mr. Oluyemi Ibiloye, appealed to politicians to avoid campaigns that could incite violence. They also cautioned their supporters against overzealousness, destruction of billboards, and disruptions of party meetings.
On her part, INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu, represented by the Ondo State Resident Electoral Commissioner Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, urged politicians to present clear and open manifestos, giving voters the opportunity to make informed choices.
In attendance were deputy governor, Olayide Adelami, Special adviser to the governor on security, Olugbenga Atiba among other top government functionaries.
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