Ondo: Initiative begs politicians to shun violence
An advocacy group, Shadanpama Grassroots Initiative has appealed to politicians in Ondo State to shun violence before, during, and after the Nov. 16 governorship election in the state.
Mr Olufemi Akinbiyi, Chief Executive Officer of the Initiative, gave the advice on Thursday in Ondo State ahead of the poll.
Shadanpama Grassroots Initiative is one of the Voter Education Providers engaged by INEC to carry out voter education activities in all the 18 local government areas of the state.
Akinbiyi called on all politicians in the state to complement efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in mobilizing the people to come out in large numbers and vote for candidates of their choice without any fear of intimidation.
“They should be all out to create necessary awareness on the voting procedures as laid down by INEC, engage them also on Electoral violence and penalties for violating anyone. Violence in an election will do no one good.
Political gladiators must conduct themselves in a way that will not jeopardise peace before, during and after the election,” Akinbiyi said.
According to him, the initiative has carried out voter education activities in the Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Akinbiyi said that the sensitization and awareness campaign were equally taken to the palaces of some traditional institutions, youths organizations, motor parks, women groups, markets, and Okada riders parks in some communities in the local government area.
Akinbiyi recounted that the Oloba of Obaile, His Royal Majesty Oba Joseph Oluwadare Agunbiade Otutu bi Osun III had also enjoined the People of Ondo State, and in particular, the people of Obaile to be peaceful during the election.
“Obaile is a peaceful town. It is even on record that the land is the most peaceful community in the state. I advise all the eligible voters in the state to come out in large number to cast their votes and go home and wait for the result.
“For those who may decide to stay at the Polling Units should conduct themselves in an orderly manner,” the traditional ruler said.
The Oba promised to join hands with other traditional rulers in the local government to ensure that peaceful atmosphere is maintained before, during, and after the election. (shadanpamareporters)
