The newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State, Dr Mutiu Agboke, has said the era of election rigging in the Country is gone for good.
Agboke made this known on Saturday in Osogbo, while addressing staff of INCE.
He said manipulation of the election process, through any means Is no longer possible under the present arrangements especially with the introduction of Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) into the system.
He said; “My responsibility is to uphold the value of INEC, and the value of INEC is to ensure that the people’s votes count in the election that will be conducted.''
“I want to assure the electorate in the state that we will not disallow them from getting the fruit of their votes, and the fruit of their votes is to vote in a direction and get result in that direction.''
“The era of rigging is gone. Rigging has been technically murdered by our process and procedure, and that is what BVAS has come to achieve.”
“So, in the 2023 election, INEC will ensure that the vote of people in Osun is recognised, and not only recognised, but also reflects the desire of the people of Osun.''
“Nobody will be deprived of his right to cast his or her vote, and the commission will do the needful at all times.”
Agboke also urged members of staff of the commission to ensure that their attitude to work changed for better, in line with the rule of engagement.
He said; “Being responsible this period is very key because we are moving towards the 2023 general elections.''
“If you are lackadaisical now, what kind of action will you carry to the election? Our staff must be up and doing.”
The administrative secretary of the commission in the state, Mr. Akanni Oduntan,in his remarks said members of staff will not disappoint the new REC.
He said; “We are happy with your coming. We want to assure you that we will not disappoint you.”