As the electorate in Osun State file out today to elect a new governor, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu has urged its officials, ad-hoc and regular staff to resist unethical behaviour during the exercise.
The INEC chairman, who gave the charge on Friday in his message to staff of the Commission participating in the governorship poll, warned the officials to ensure that no political party or candidate is accorded any advantage over the other.
Yakubu recalled that the Ekiti governorship election conducted last month was widely adjudged to be free, fair, credible and inclusive, adding that the feat was an elongation of the earlier successes recorded in Edo, Ondo and Anambra states governorship elections.
He said: “The sheer determination, resilience, and competence displayed by all of you, our members of staff, made it possible for the Commission to achieve these lofty goals.
“As you are aware, the Osun State governorship election will hold on Saturday. I have assured our stakeholders and the people of Osun State that the Commission will not do anything to the advantage or disadvantage of any political party or candidate. We have made adequate arrangements for the election. We have promised a level playing field for all. The security agencies have assured us of safety.
“The people of Osun State and Nigerians will understandably hold us to our promise on election day. They will observe our attitude and behaviour from the opening to the closing of polls. They will particularly observe our management of the election results and measure the extent of our adherence to the extant laws through every stage of the electoral process.
“I appeal to you to uphold our Code of Conduct, display your usual sense of commitment and professionalism, remain above board and firmly resist any unethical behaviour. You must also stick to the Oath of Neutrality to which we have all subscribed. I have the confidence in your ability to consolidate on our recent successes.”
Yakubu’s charge to INEC staff came amid concerns that many residents may not exercise their civic responsibility because of violence being precipitated by rival cult groups and various transport unions in the state.
