By Bukola Olamona

The people of Ondo State have been lauded for their peaceful conduct during the gubernatorial election held on November 16,2024

In its situation room report, the Nigeria Civil Society Organization (CSO) commended residents for ensuring the election proceeded smoothly by maintaining a calm and peaceful atmosphere.

Addressing observers, the co-convener, Franklin Oloniju, highlighted that reports from the situation room indicated a 99 percent optimal performance of the Bimodal Voters Accreditation System (BVAS).

He noted that instances of malfunctioning BVAS machines were promptly addressed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which ensured replacements at affected polling units.

Oloniju further observed that polls generally opened early at about 97 percent of polling units across the state, commencing at the official hour of 6:30 am.

He stated that no incidents of shortages in voting materials were recorded in the observed polling units.

Additionally, vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and Persons Living With Disabilities (PWDs), were given priority during voting. However, he noted the absence of voting aids such as magnifying glasses and Braille materials, which would have been beneficial for those who needed them.

On security, Oloniju remarked that the deployment of security personnel was adequate and proportional.

He praised their professionalism and politeness but suggested that the number of security personnel deployed for elections in Nigeria should be gradually reduced, reflecting the country’s developmental strides.

He also called on political parties to intensify voter education efforts, particularly for the youth, noting the encouraging turnout of young voters during the election and emphasised the importance of engaging them as future leaders in the electoral process.