Ondo poll: INEC begins training for security personnel 

Barely one month to the governorship election in Ondo State, the Independent National Electoral Commission has begun a three-day training session for some security personnel for the off-cycle poll.

The trainees include the men of the state police command, the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Airforce, the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigerian Immigration Service and the Nigerian Customs Service.

Speaking at the opening of the training in Akure, the state capital, on Monday, the National Commissioner and Chairman, Board of Electoral Institute, Prof Abdullahi Zuru, said the training was necessary for the commission to collaborate with security agencies in ensuring the safeguarding of voters and their votes.

He said, “It is pertinent to remind ourselves that off-cycle elections in Nigeria are inherently more challenging than general elections because it allows political actors to concentrate their human and material resources to circumvent the electoral process.

“So, the INEC and security agencies must continuously enhance collaboration to ensure that the vote of every voter counts and the people of Ondo State decide who governs them through the ballot box.

“This training is, therefore, an opportunity for the commission to further enhance synergy between INEC and the security agencies, and ultimately ensure that a tranquil electoral environment is provided for deployment of electoral materials, equipment and personnel as well as peaceful movement of voters.”

The commissioner lauded the security agencies for always doing their best to ensure the protection of the lives and property of the citizens.

In his remarks, the institute’s Director-General, Dr Sa’ad Idris, emphasised that security was critical in protecting electoral personnel, locations and processes.

The DG, who described the security personnel as the guardians of the democratic process, noted that their expertise and professionalism are crucial in maintaining peace, order and fairness throughout the electoral process.

He also explained that during the training, the security personnel would be equipped with knowledge, skills and best necessary practices to excel in their duties.