The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has emphasized the collaboration of all stakeholders as a prerequisite for the successful governorship election in Edo State scheduled for September 21, 2024.
Professor Rhoda Gumus, the National Commissioner in charge of Planning, Monitoring, and Strategy, made this statement on Wednesday during an Election Risk Management Workshop for stakeholders in Benin City. She stated that conducting elections is a complex and extensive undertaking that cannot be done in isolation.
The workshop aimed to familiarize participants with INEC’s Electoral Risk Framework, identify internal and external risk factors associated with the election, and develop strategies to address them.
Gumus emphasized, “The conduct of elections requires financial resources, a wide range of expertise in various fields, extensive engagement, consultations, planning, and eventual implementation.”
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She added, “Constitutionally, INEC is responsible for conducting elections and unequivocally requires the cooperation of security management bodies and other stakeholders to ensure successful elections.”
Gumus noted, “Environmental dynamics can significantly impact elections, either positively or negatively, as recognized by security experts across various ideologies. Therefore, elections do not occur in isolation.”
Professor Kunle Ajayi, the National Commissioner in charge of Outreach and Partnership, stressed the importance of everyone being vigilant about security during elections and preventing security breaches by identifying potential flashpoints.
He expressed confidence in security agencies’ ability to manage election risks and violence, stating, “We trust that security agencies will utilize their expertise to provide adequate security before, during, and after the elections.”
Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of Edo State, highlighted that effective risk management during elections is crucial for ensuring they are free, fair, and credible.
Commissioner of Police Funsho Adegboye assured that the police are prepared to provide adequate security on election day, emphasizing that sensitization of officers began well in advance.
