The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned political parties, candidates and their supporters against vote buying, electoral violence and other actions capable of undermining the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, assuring residents that the poll will be peaceful, credible and transparent.
INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, gave the warning on Thursday at the signing of the Osun State Peace Accord in Osogbo, where political parties contesting the election pledged to conduct peaceful campaigns and abide by the outcome of the poll.
The event, organised by the National Peace Committee, brought together political party leaders, security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to a free, fair and violence-free election.
Amupitan said INEC had made significant progress in preparations for the election, revealing that seven of the nine activities outlined in the electoral timetable had already been completed.
“Seven out of the nine scheduled electoral activities have already been completed, while the remaining milestones include the conclusion of campaigns on August 13 and the governorship election on August 15,” he said.
The INEC chairman disclosed that more than 2.3 million registered voters are expected to participate in the election and announced that the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) had been extended until July 31 to enable more eligible voters to collect their cards.
“Over 2.3 million registered voters are expected to participate in the election,” he said, adding that the commission had extended PVC collection “until July 31 to improve voter participation.”
He assured residents that the commission, in collaboration with security agencies and other stakeholders, would ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
“Anyone involved in vote buying, electoral violence or attempts to disrupt the poll will face the full weight of the law,” Amupitan warned.
He urged political parties and their supporters to uphold the commitments contained in the peace accord by conducting issue-based campaigns and resolving any grievances through lawful means rather than violence.
The peace accord commits all participating political parties to peaceful conduct before, during and after the election as part of efforts to ensure that the August 15 governorship poll is free, fair and credible.