Ekiti elders urge peaceful, credible conduct ahead of Saturday governorship poll

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Ekiti Council of Elders has appealed to political stakeholders to maintain peace and ensure a credible process before, during and after Saturday’s governorship election.

In a statement issued in Ado Ekiti on Sunday, the council congratulated residents ahead of the June 20 poll, where voters are expected to elect a governor for the next four years.

The statement, signed by the council’s President, Prof. Joseph Oluwasanmi, Secretary, Elder Niyi Ajibulu, and Public Relations Officer, Dr. Bayo Orire, also commended the 15 governorship candidates and their running mates for participating in the race.

The elders urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to place the interest of the state above partisan considerations and conduct themselves peacefully throughout the electoral process.

“We desire continuous development in Ekiti, and peace remains a vital ingredient for progress. Political actors and their supporters should shun violence and allow peace to prevail across the state,” the council said.

“The election is meant to advance the welfare of the people, not divide them. We commend the peaceful atmosphere that has characterised campaigns and preparations for the poll and urge all stakeholders not to allow any breakdown of law and order,” it added.

The council also encouraged eligible voters to come out in large numbers and exercise their civic responsibility peacefully on election day.

While commending the Independent National Electoral Commission for its preparations, the elders urged the commission to deliver a free, fair and transparent election, and called on security agencies to provide adequate protection for lives and property throughout the exercise.