The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Ondo State has held an Electoral Risk Management (ERM) sensitisation workshop for security operatives and Electoral Officers across the 18 local government areas to strengthen electoral security ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The workshop focused on identifying potential threats to the electoral process, improving early warning and response mechanisms, and developing strategies to prevent or mitigate risks before, during and after the elections.
In his opening remarks, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Mutiu Olaleke Agboke, described elections as processes rather than mere events, stressing that every stage requires adequate security to protect lives, electoral personnel and sensitive materials.
Dr. Agboke urged participants to assess the security challenges peculiar to their respective areas, identify factors that could disrupt the electoral process and develop practical measures to address them.
He also charged security operatives to work closely with the Commission to ensure adequate protection of electoral activities, particularly at collation centres, where the integrity of election results must be safeguarded.
In his presentation, the Head of the Department of Planning and Monitoring, Alhaji Wasiu Olundegun, highlighted the objectives of the workshop, including improving participants’ understanding of electoral risk management, identifying potential threats, strengthening early warning and response systems, and promoting collaboration among relevant stakeholders.
In a goodwill message, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Felix Ohagwu, represented by CSP Ovunda O. Janet, assured INEC and residents of the state’s preparedness to provide adequate security before, during and after the 2027 General Election.
Similarly, SC Aidamenbor Daniel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to supporting a peaceful and secure electoral process.
Participants later broke into groups representing the senatorial districts to identify possible electoral risks and recommend appropriate preventive and mitigation measures.
The groups subsequently presented their findings, followed by questions and observations aimed at deepening understanding and encouraging constructive engagement.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Agboke, participated throughout the presentations, offering clarifications and guidance where necessary.
