INEC suspends electoral officers in Ondo State

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has indefinitely suspended the Electoral Officer for Akure North Local Government Area, Akole Mobolade, citing alleged negligence, absenteeism, and poor performance during preparations for the 2027 general elections. Two other electoral officers in the same local government were also ordered to step aside. Bisi Farokanmi has been appointed as the acting electoral officer for the area.

Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ondo State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, announced the disciplinary actions following an inspection of facilities and election materials. Agboke described the absence of the officers from their posts as irresponsible and a breach of official responsibility.

In a separate update regarding election readiness, Agboke stated that non-sensitive materials, including generators, mats, and operational vehicles, are already available in Ondo State for the 2027 elections. During a visit to the Deji of Akure, Oba Adetoyinbo Aladelusi, the REC requested support from traditional institutions to encourage the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and to discourage vote buying and electoral violence.