Ondo LG polls: ODIEC accredits 50 NGOs as observers

By Jubril Bada
The Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) has reiterated its commitment to conducting transparent, credible, and peaceful local government elections scheduled for Saturday, January 18, 2025.
In its efforts to ensure a seamless process, ODIEC has accredited nearly 50 local and international Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to observe the elections across the state’s 18 Local Government Areas.
This development was disclosed in a statement by the ODIEC Commissioner for ICT, Media, and Publicity, Mr Tunde Adeleye, who highlighted that the accreditation serves as an update to the initial list of observers.
The statement underscores ODIEC’s resolve to keep stakeholders informed and prepared for the electoral exercise.
The accredited organizations include the Progressive and Good Governance Initiative Support in Nigeria, Transparency and Equality for Sustainable Development, Nigerian Women Development Foundation, Centre for the Sustainance of Civil Rule in Africa, Advocacy for Free and Fair Election in Nigeria, National Orientation Agency, Trade Union Congress, Association of Women for Human Development, and Centre for the Sustainance of Civil Rule in Africa.
Other groups on the list are the Centre for Electorate Rights and Awareness, Advocacy for Sustainable Development Initiative, Centre for Peace, Equity and Good Governance, Advocacy for Quality Leadership and Health Awareness Foundation, Advocacy for Free and Fair Election in Nigeria, and Good Governance Initiative for Democracy.
Also accredited are the Women and Youth Peace Progressive Initiative, Nation Builders for Good Governance, Womenstand for Good Governance, Peaceful Society and Good Governance Initiative, Peace, Progress and Justice, and the Centre for Good Leadership Initiative, among others.
According to the statement, representatives from these NGOs will monitor the electoral process and report their findings, further demonstrating ODIEC’s commitment to upholding democratic principles.
The statement noted that the accredited observers would play a vital role in ensuring the integrity and transparency of the elections by focusing on the conduct of electoral officials, security personnel, and voters.
The observers are tasked with reporting any cases of malpractice, voter intimidation, or irregularities while ensuring adherence to electoral laws and providing unbiased assessments of the electoral process.
“Through their impartial observations, these organizations will contribute to safeguarding democratic practices and ensuring that the will of the people is respected,” the statement read.
ODIEC also reassured voters that adequate measures have been put in place to guarantee a peaceful and well-organized election.
The commission highlighted its extensive voter education campaigns and capacity-building initiatives for electoral officials as part of its preparation for the polls.