The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that 2.053 million registered voters will take part in the governorship election in Ondo State on November 16. The state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, shared this information during a press briefing in Akure, emphasizing the commission’s readiness for the election.
Babalola reported that of the registered voters, 1.034 million are males (50.36%) and 1.019 million are females (49.64%). She highlighted that 726,944 (35.41%) are youths, while 721,982 (35.17%) are middle-aged. The commission has completed the Continuous Voter Registration, which added 58,708 new voters, along with 3,132 transfers into Ondo State and 123 transfers out.
She assured that the registration process was inclusive, transparent, and accessible, particularly for marginalized groups such as women, youth, and people with disabilities. INEC will soon start distributing Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and has set up collection centers in all local government areas to facilitate this.
Babalola noted that essential non-sensitive election materials have been received and distributed across the 18 local government areas. INEC is working closely with security agencies to ensure the safe storage and timely distribution of materials ahead of the election. The commission has also secured enough Bimodal Voter Accreditation System devices for all 3,933 polling units.
Babalola affirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting a credible, transparent, and inclusive election in Ondo State and urged the public to participate peacefully on election day. She called on political parties, candidates, and their supporters to adhere to engagement rules and maintain a peaceful environment throughout the electoral process.