Ondo cleric urges peaceful conduct ahead of LG elections

By Adeboye Ado
The Chief Imam of Arigidi Akoko, Sheikh Jimoh Balogun, has called for peaceful conduct during the Ondo State local government elections scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday.
Delivering his sermon during today’s Jummah service at Arigidi Akoko, in Akoko North West Local Area of the State, Sheikh Balogun noted that elections should not be treated “as a do-or-die affair, as it is only Allah who grants and takes away positions of authority.”
He noted that the era of electoral malpractices, such as ballot box snatching and thuggery, is gradually fading in Nigeria.
“All thanks to advancements like electronic voting, which have addressed many challenges in the voting process.
“The cleric urged politicians to maintain peace and decorum before, during, and after the election, stressing the importance for grassroots development.
Sheikh Balogun also advocated for true autonomy for local governments in Nigeria, maintaining that as the tier of government closest to the people, they play a crucial role in fostering development at the community level.