The president of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Mahmood Yakubu on Friday warned staff members against “unethical behaviour” ahead of the Osun gubernatorial election.
The July 16 election is one of eight off-cycle gubernatorial elections in Nigeria and has 14 candidates vying for the post.
With the possibility that politicians might try to buy off his staff and subvert the principles of the country’s democracy, Mr. Yakubu, in his message, told the Commission’s staff to resist such an urge.
He urged them to maintain professionalism and commitment, two of the elements he said explained the commission’s successes in the out-of-cycle gubernatorial elections held in Edo, Ondo, Anambra and Ekiti states.
“The sheer determination, resilience and competence displayed by all of you, our staff members, made it possible for the Commission to achieve these lofty goals,” said Mr. Mahmood.
Through the engagement of staff members, the INEC president said he hopes to meet the expectations of Nigerians in Saturday’s poll.
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“It is understandable that the people of Osun State and Nigerians hold us to our promise on election day. They will observe our attitude and behavior from the opening to the closing of the polls. In particular, they will observe our management of the electoral results and will measure the degree of our compliance with the laws in force at each stage of the electoral process.
“I ask that you adhere to our Code of Conduct, display your usual sense of commitment and professionalism, remain honest, and firmly resist any unethical behavior. You must also adhere to the Oath of Neutrality to which we have all subscribed. I am confident in your ability to build on our recent successes,” said Mr. Yakubu.