The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that contrary to the speculations of the People’s Democratic Party on the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor of OAU as the Returning Officer for Ondo gubernatorial election, it is not within the precinct of its constitutional duty to consult anyone before the appointment.
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Mr. Festus Okoye Esq., the INEC National Commissioner & Chairman Information and Voter Education disclosed this on Friday in a statement.
“The attention of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been drawn to a press conference addressed by the Chairman of the PDP National Campaign Council and Governor of Oyo State, Mr. Seyi Makinde, on Thursday, October 8, 2020 to the effect that the Commission has appointed the Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Professor Eyitope Ogungbenro Ogunbodede, as the Returning Officer for the Ondo Governorship election taking place on October 10, 2020.”
However, he stated that it is imperative for the Commission to clarify the issue, although, speculative in the interest of the electoral process, noting that it is the exclusive power of the Commission to make the appointment without consulting any person, group, or political party.
“While the Commission will not be drawn into speculations relating to the performance of its constitutional and statutory functions, it is imperative to set the records straight for the benefit of the people of Ondo State and the integrity of the electoral process. It is the sole responsibility of the Commission to appoint a Returning Officer for the Ondo Governorship election and does not share this responsibility with any individual, group or Political Party.
“It is the sole responsibility of the Commission to appoint a Returning Officer for the Ondo Governorship election and does not share this responsibility with any individual, group or Political Party.”
Meanwhile, he noted that contrary to the speculations, the Returning Officer is not from OAU and that he will report to the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ondo State
as at when due.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Returning Officer for the Ondo Governorship election is not from Ondo State and not from the University mentioned in the said press conference. The Returning Officer appointed by the Commission will report to the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ondo State on the date conveyed in his letter of appointment issued several days ago.”
Finally, INEC assures of a free, fair and credible election ahead of tomorrow’s election.
“The Commission is firmly focused on the conduct of free, fair and peaceful election and implores all the stakeholders to cooperate
“The main concern of the Commission is in ensuring a credible electoral process while the outcome is in the hands of the people of Ondo State.”
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