2023 elections crucial milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey – Osun REC, Agboke

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, Dr Mutiu Agboke, has noted that the 2023 general elections marked a crucial milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

This is as Agboke noted that it also allowed citizens across the length and breadth of Nigeria to exercise their constitutional right to vote and choose leaders.

He made this known in an address at Tuesday’s 2023 state-level post-election review meeting in Osogbo.

The Osun REC, while noting that the review meeting served as a platform to engage in open and constructive discussions, also added that it served as a means to analyse the various aspects of the election process at the state level.

He stated that the meeting would afford the opportunity to “delve into the intricacies of preparedness for the 2023 general election, voter registrations PVC Collection, voter education and publicity, election day processes and procedures, security measures, and the overall efficiency of our electoral system.

“We are grateful for the presence of the entire management staff of INEC Osun State, the Electoral Officers and their Assistants, here present, whose guidance and expertise will undoubtedly enrich our discussions.

“Your dedication to upholding the principles of free, fair, and credible elections has been an inspiration to us all.”

The Osun INEC boss emphasised that the insights and recommendations of the meeting participants were being anticipated, which will serve to collectively enhance the electoral process and strengthen the democratic institutions.

“Your expertise, experiences, and perspectives will contribute significantly to the fruitful deliberations we are about to embark upon.

“As we engage in this thoughtful discourse and exchange of ideas, let us critically access our processes by addressing any form of shortcomings, thereby leveraging on our strengths, then we can collectively work towards a more robust and inclusive electoral system,” he added.

While urging participants to engage in the discussions to share valuable insights and recommendations, Agboke calls for mutual respect, open-mindedness, and collaboration towards a shared vision of transparent and credible elections.

“We are to better our systems by ourselves and for ourselves. No one can do it better unless we are determined to do it. We should all be positive about our systems. INEC needs your support to do it and to get it. Together, 2027 shall be a better outing,” he said.