The Department of State Services (DSS) has assured the public and stakeholders in the Ondo State governorship election scheduled for October 10, 2020 of its support and preparedness for the polls.
Public relations Officer of DSS, Peter Afunanya, said in a statement on Wednesday that the Service will not only partner with sister security agencies but support the independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the election is hitch-free. The DSS also enjoined its personnel to remain professional while discharging their duties.
“The service, therefore, urges all players in the electoral process to abide by the rules of the game. Persons and groups that may wish to engage in violent activities leading to break down of law and order are advised to desist from such devious plans or be ready to face the full wrath of the law,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, the United States (US) has urged all stakeholders to continue to work toward free, fair, transparent, and peaceful elections in Ondo State.
Read also: Ondo Election: Putting people’s interest above other considerations
A statement issued by the Public Affairs Section of the US Embassy in Abuja, said:“We reiterate our hope that all participants in the democratic process, including the INEC, political parties, and the security services, will take concrete steps to ensure a peaceful election that reflects the will of the people of Ondo.
“The United States remains committed to the Us-Nigeria partnership as we work together to achieve our mutual goals of peace and prosperity for the citizensof both our countries.”
Recall that the US had issued a threat of visa ban on any person or group of persons who violates the electoral rules and cause mayhem during the just concluded September 19 governorship election in Edo State and October10, Ondo State governorship election.
This threat, according to pundits, played a significant part in reducing tension and ensuring a peaceful outcome in the Edo election even as the US has not withdrawn the threat ahead of Saturday’s polls in Ondo.
The principal contenders for the governorship seat in Ondo are incumbent Governor,Rotimi Akeredolu of the All Progressives Congress (APC); Eyitayo Jegede of the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the current Deputy Governor of the state, Ajayi Agboola who is running on the platform of the Zenith LabourParty.
