The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Oyo state, Dr. Adeniran Rahmon Tella has on Wednesday during the stakeholders meeting assured constituents of Ibadan North Federal Constituency of peaceful conduct of poll at the forthcoming bye -election in the area.
This is just as the State Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna also urged the electorate in the affected Constituency to go out en-mass on Saturday 16th August to exercise their civic right.
Five candidates that are contesting in the forthcoming bye-election in Ibadan North Federal Constituency also signed a peace accord pact at the INEC headquarters shortly after the stakeholders meeting.
The five candidates who signed the peace agreement are – Dexter Femi Akin-Alamu, African Democratic Congress (ADC), Adewale Haastrup Olatunji, All Progressives Congress (APC), Olabisi Olajumoke Odususi, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Fola Sunday Oyekunle, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Hammed Badmus, Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
The event was attended by leaders of the political parties, security chiefs and other stakeholders.
The election became necessary in order to fill the vacant position created as a result of the demise of the last occupant of the seat, Hon Musliudeen Olaide Akinremi popularly known as Jagaban, who died last year at the age of 51.
Dr Adeniran Rahmon Tella, while addressing the gathering, noted that the peace accord became necessary in order to ensure a free and fair election.
He added that the commission is committed to conducting a credible election.
Adeniran encouraged the candidates and their supporters to maintain a high level of decorum and sportsmanship throughout the electoral process.
He said, “On behalf of the Independent National Electoral Commission, it is my pleasure to welcome you all to this significant event – the official signing of the Peace Accord for Ibadan North Federal Constituency Bye-Election.
“This gathering demonstrates your commitment to promoting peace, stability and credibility in the electoral process. The signing of this Peace Accord is a crucial step towards ensuring a free, fair and transparent election.
“As we embark on this critical process. I urge all stakeholders to adhere to the principles outlined in the Peace Accord. Let us work together to create an environment that allows voters to exercise their rights without fear or intimidation.” Adeniran said.
In a communique read by the state Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna highlighted the significant steps that have been taken by the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) and Oyo State Police Command to ensure a secure, free, and fair election for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency bye-election.
He said, “This election is set to take place in just 72 hours, on Saturday, August 16, 2025, following the unfortunate passing of the esteemed representative, late Hon. Olaide Aderemi.
“In preparation for this critical electoral exercise, ICCES has held a series of consultations with strategic security stakeholders to assess and affirm our readiness. We recognize that conducting a safe election requires collaboration, commitment, and adherence to the rule of law, and we are resolute in our collective resolve to uphold these standards.”
“We undertook a symbolic signing of the peace accord among participating political parties and aspirants. This accord serves as a binding commitment for all parties to maintain peace and good conduct during and after the election, while firmly discouraging any forms of electoral violence.
“The following key resolutions were agreed upon, That no quasi-security organizations, including state-backed groups will be permitted to participate in Saturday’s bye-election.
“All electoral laws remain in force. There shall be no campaigning or display of political insignia/logos at polling units and wards on the day of Election. The sale or consumption of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited around polling units and wards to maintain decorum and order.
“Uniform Personnel Restrictions: No uniformed personnel shall escort aspirants to cast their votes at polling units or wards on the day of election.
“The distribution of financial inducements or any form of coercion to influence voters is strictly forbidden. Anyone found in possession of any instrument of violence within or outside the voting area will face strict legal action and prosecution. There will be restrictions on movement from 12 mid-night on the election day till 5pm within Ibadan North, Ibadan North East, Ibadan South West, and their adjoining boundaries to ensure safety and security.
“In furtherance of the above, residents can expect a significant deployment of security presence throughout the event. Our measures will include high-octane convoy patrols, intermittent shows of force, intelligence-driven raids, stop-and-search operations, and continuous surveillance across the metropolis.
“We urge parents, guardians, and community leaders to play a pivotal role in upholding the integrity of this electoral process. We ask that you discourage your children, wards, and protégés from being used as tools for violence or disruption. Failure to adhere to these guidelines will attract legal consequences and sanctions.
“We are committed to the success of a peaceful electoral process and urge all stakeholders to fulfill their responsibilities to protect democracy in our state. Together, we can ensure that the Ibadan North Federal Constituency Bye-Election is conducted without fear, violence, or intimidation.” CP Femi Haruna said.
