Ekiti State Elders Urge Peaceful Governorship Election

As the people of Ekiti State prepare to go to the polls on June 20 to elect a new governor, the Ekiti Council of Elders has made a passionate appeal to all stakeholders to ensure that the election is conducted in a peaceful and credible manner. The council, which is comprised of respected elders in the state, urged all participants in the electoral process to prioritize the interest of the state and uphold peace before, during, and after the election. In a statement signed by its President, Prof Joseph Oluwasanmi, Secretary, Elder Niyi Ajibulu, and Public Relations Officer, Dr Bayo Orire, the council congratulated the people of the state and the 15 governorship candidates and their running mates for participating in the contest. The elders emphasized that the election is meant to bring development to the state and its people, and therefore, it should not be allowed to divide the people. They commended the political class for the peaceful atmosphere that has prevailed during the campaign and preparation for the election, and urged them to sustain this peaceful atmosphere. The council also urged residents of Ekiti State to come out in their numbers to perform their civic responsibility peacefully on June 20. Furthermore, the council commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for the preparations made so far and urged the electoral body to ensure the conduct of a credible, free, fair, transparent, and acceptable election. The council also called on security agencies to ensure adequate security for lives and property before, during, and after the election, stating that 'we want development in the state; peace is a necessary condition for development. So, we advise the parties, candidates, and supporters to eschew violence, conduct their activities peacefully and let peace reign in the state.'