Dr Rufus Akeju, Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Ondo State has assured of free, fair and credible conduct of forthcoming House of Representatives by-election in the state.
Akeju gave the assurance at the 2022 Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) election of its executive members held on Thursday in Akure.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the House of Representatives bye-election will be conducted in Akure South and North constituency on Feb.26, 2022.
Akeju, who explained that conducting a credible election was the responsibility of all stakeholders, called for collaboration to achieve the desired result in the management of any election.
“As a REC without fear or favour, to provide to pilot the affairs of the commission in this state, in accordance with the electoral act and fear of God.
“I am assuring you that the commission shall be guided by the principles of independence, transparency, credibility, integrity, impartiality, dedication, equity, inclusiveness and excellence in all our conducts and activities.
“So, let me assure you that the commission is, more than ever before, committed to the conduct of very free, fair, credible peaceful and acceptable 2023 general election.
“And we also give same assurance for the forthcoming House of Representatives bye-election in Ondo State,” he said.
The REC, who implored IPAC to obey the rules and regulations of the election and also display high level of sportsmanship, said the importance of IPAC in the electoral process could not be over-emphasised.
According to him, the engagement with IPAC enhances effective lines of communication between the commission and registered political parties.
“The partnership with political parties and IPAC as major election stakeholders by INEC is essential and projected to establish an enduring platform for sustained and constructive political engagement.
“It is this synergy that will lead to a more stable and credible electoral culture in this country,” he said.
Prince Adesanya Olaoluwa, state Chairman of Action Peoples Party (APP), who was elected as IPAC chairman promised to carry everyone along and bring unity among the members in the state.
Olaoluwa appreciated all the chairmen of the political parties comprised of IPAC in the state for the love imposed and for voting in his favor.
Mr Adekunle Rufai, National Chairman of Action Alliance (AA), and team leader of the IPAC election in Ondo State, said that no fewer than 15 difference political parties participated in the election.
Rufai, however, said one party was disqualified during the IPAC election.
(NAN)