By Adeyemi Adekunle
As Ondo State gears up for its highly anticipated governorship election tomorrow, the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) has called on all involved stakeholders to prioritize a transparent, credible, and peaceful electoral process.
In a statement released earlier today, the Election Analysis team at CJID emphasized the critical role of elections in democracy, urging citizens to engage in the electoral process responsibly.
“The essence of elections is to give power to the people,” the statement noted. “It allows citizens to select leaders who are tasked with serving their interests and addressing their needs.”
With this in mind, CJID has underscored that the credibility of the upcoming election hinges on the collective responsibility of stakeholders, which includes the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political parties, security agencies, observers, the media, and voters themselves.
To ensure a credible election, CJID highlighted a number of key responsibilities for various stakeholders:
INEC’s Role in Ensuring Fairness
INEC has been called upon to prioritize logistical arrangements to guarantee the timely deployment of electoral materials and personnel to polling units across Ondo State.
CJID stresses that INEC’s capacity to effectively manage logistics and ensure transparency during critical phases—such as accreditation, voting, counting, and result transmission—is paramount for a smooth electoral process.
“Our faith in democracy is tied to INEC’s ability to operate transparently and neutrally,” said Mboho Eno, Deputy Director of CJID. “They set the tone for what is expected in conducting the elections.”
Political Parties Urged to Promote Decorum
CJID has urges political parties and their candidates to conduct themselves with decorum, emphasizing the necessity of peaceful elections free from corrupt practices such as vote-buying. Political actors are encouraged to respect the electoral outcome, and to address any potential grievances through appropriate legal avenues.
“Elections are not just a process but a contract with the people,” Eno added. “Winning should reflect the will of the electorate, not manipulation.”
Security Agencies Called to Maintain Neutrality
CJID also addressed the essential role of security agencies in the upcoming elections. These agencies are called upon to maintain peace and order without bias. The organization insists that security personnel should protect voters, officials, and observers alike, facilitating a secure environment for all participants without fear.
“The presence of security should assure the public, not intimidate them,” Eno explained. “It’s vital that security forces remain neutral and act solely in the interest of public safety.”
The Role of Observers and Media in Fostering Transparency
The integrity of the electoral process will also rely heavily on the roles of election observers and the media, both of which are crucial for promoting transparency and providing timely information regarding the election’s conduct. CJID expects both domestic and international observers to work freely, unhindered in their duties to monitor the electoral process.
“The media plays a critical role in ensuring the public remains informed about the election proceedings,” the statement noted. “It’s fundamental that these entities operate without restrictions to maintain a credible process.”
Voter Mobilization: A Call to Action
In a final call to action, CJID encouraged all eligible voters in Ondo State to exercise their democratic right and make their voices heard at the ballot box. “Your vote is your voice and a vital tool in shaping the future of your state,” the statement asserted. “By participating, you contribute to the democratic process and help secure a better future for yourself and your community.”
The organization emphasized the importance of peaceful participation, urging voters to cast their ballots without intimidation and to approach the electoral process with a commitment to democracy.
CJID’s Commitment to Civic Engagement
The CJID also reaffirmed its dedication to supporting Nigeria’s democratic processes through initiatives aimed at promoting transparency, civic education, and electoral accountability. Projects such as the Citizen’s Perception Survey for Edo and Ondo State highlight the organization’s commitment to engaging citizens effectively and advocating for institutional reforms.
Through these initiatives, CJID aims to foster an informed and participatory electorate that can make educated decisions and hold its leaders accountable.
