By Jubril Bada
The National Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has confirmed that sensitive materials for the November 16 Ondo State governorship election, including ballot papers and result sheets among others, will arrive on Tuesday, next week.
The materials will be inspected on Wednesday by political parties, observers, media, security agencies, and Commission’s staff.
While inspecting INEC offices in Akure North and Akure South Local Government areas, Yakubu reviewed the Commission’s level of preparedness for the upcoming election.
He mentioned that the distribution of sensitive materials would start with the farthest local governments and end with Akure South.
He informed that Local-level inspections of these materials will occur before moving them to wards and Registration Areas on Friday, with polling units activated for the election on Saturday.
Yakubu described the state and local governments’ level of preparation as impressive.
He confirmed that all configured machines Bimoda Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) are ready to be deployed along with the sensitive materials, which include ballot papers and result sheets, to local governments on Thursday after inspection.
“With 10 days to the election, the level of preparation is very impressive. That is why I have been inspecting the details to ensure that all electoral materials are intact.
“In terms of preparation so far, I’m really impressed with what the state office and local governments have achieved, and I’m also satisfied with the reports I’ve received from other local governments. Based on the level of preparation we’ve seen, I’m confident we will succeed,” Yakubu said.
He emphasized that every election provides lessons for INEC, saying “We never claim to conduct a perfect election, and we are constantly improving.
“In previous elections, Nigerians asked for improvements in two key areas: logistics to ensure polling units open promptly and transparent result management. I have assured the electorate that they will see remarkable improvements in these two areas.”
Regarding the timely delivery of materials to riverine areas, Yakubu explained that INEC will secure materials in waterproof bags to prevent damage if they fall into the water. Boats and vehicles are arranged to ensure materials arrive early in these areas, and security measures include life jackets for staff and security agents.
Speaking with journalists, the Electoral Officers for Akure North and Akure South Local Governments, Mrs. Dije Bala and Mr. Ezekiel Oyediran, respectively, affirmed the Commission’s readiness for the poll, stating that they only await the arrival of the sensitive materials.
They added that their discussions with the National Chairman were positive, as he expressed satisfaction with their preparations ahead of the election.