Youths, under the aegis of Ondo Youth League, are protesting against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Officer, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, requesting the INEC chairman, Yakubu Mahmood, to redeploy her.
The protest, which is in its second day, according to a report by the Coordinator of the group, Comrade Ayodeji Adeyemi, is aimed at persuading the INEC chairman to remove Mrs Babalola so as to guarantee a credible election as the off circle governorship election in the state draws closer.
The report reads:
The Ondo Youth League’s protest for a credible and transparent election has entered its second day today, with the group calling for the redeployment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ondo State, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola.
This move is aimed at ensuring the integrity of the electoral process in the upcoming governorship election, scheduled to hold on November 16, 2024.
The league’s demands highlight concerns about potential biases and manipulation that could compromise the election’s outcome. By advocating for the REC’s redeployment, they seek to prevent any undue influence and guarantee a level playing field for all candidates and all parties in the Election.
In their last outing, the INEC through its representatives, Major General A.B Alkali, promised the protesting group that the commission will deliberate on the issue and revert to the youths.
The INEC has also made several commitments to delivering credible elections in Ondo State, with measures such as publishing particulars of nominated candidates and implementing reforms to enhance transparency.
However, the Ondo Youth League’s protest serves as a reminder of the need for continued vigilance and civic engagement to safeguard democracy.
It’s worth noting that the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has emphasized the importance of credible elections, stating that the commission is committed to ensuring that the electoral process is free, fair, and transparent. The league’s efforts totally aligned with this goal, thereby promoting accountability and integrity in the electoral process.
The outcome of this protest will be crucial in shaping the electoral landscape of Ondo State. Will the INEC respond to the league’s demands, and what implications will this have on the outcome of the coming election?
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