Osun State Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi, has praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its handling of the state governorship election, describing the commission's performance as satisfactory.
Speaking with Channels Television after casting his vote, Adewusi said the electoral exercise started smoothly, noting that INEC officials and security personnel arrived at his polling unit on time and voting commenced without significant difficulties.
The deputy governor, however, disclosed that the BIVAS machine at his polling unit initially developed a technical problem. He said the issue was quickly reported to INEC officials, who responded promptly and ensured that the voting process continued.
Adewusi also spoke about an incident that reportedly caused tension at the polling location. He alleged that a staff member of the APC deputy governorship candidate pointed at some voters and demanded that they be arrested. According to him, the individual also slapped some people, leading to an argument over his authority to take such action.
He said the staff member was subsequently apprehended and taken into custody, where security operatives in Osogbo were reportedly profiling him. Adewusi noted that the incident caused a brief disruption but that voting eventually resumed.
The deputy governor also raised concerns about alleged vote buying in parts of Ife. He mentioned Ore Ward, where some individuals were reportedly arrested and handed over to security authorities, including the DSS or State Intelligence Department.
Despite these incidents, Adewusi commended voters for turning out in large numbers and praised security personnel for maintaining order.
In his statement, "Please, INEC has done perfectly well in this election. Let's be honest with ourselves. The security personnel too; they are going around doing their job peacefully, and I give kudos to them on that."
He added, "Then again, I want to commend the electorate. The turnout was superb. They all came out to exercise their franchise. And this shows that, look, if all elections can turn out to be like this, honestly, everything will be okay in this country."
He further said, "Apart from the little things that INEC will have to improve upon, or maybe the security operative to really nip the issue of vote buying in the bud."
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