Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State on Friday asked residents of the state to ensure they cast their ballots wisely, as it will determine the way forward for Nigeria.
In a broadcast yesterday, the governor also asked the electorate to be peaceful, warning that troublemakers will not find it easy to foment trouble as security operatives are fully prepared.
“Our votes will determine the way forward for Nigeria, do not sell your vote, as they say, your vote is your right”, the governor said.
“I enjoin you to cast your vote in an atmosphere of peace and order. Let me assure you that all the security measures have been put in place before and after election.
Mr. Ajimobi reiterated government’s commitment to ensure the safety of residents, before, during and after the elections.
“Fomenters of trouble will find our state very hot to foment trouble. I have held several meetings with security officers and they assure of their readiness”, said Mr. Ajimobi.
He further urged the residents to remain calm at all times even when they see military personnel around their residences or polling units, saying they are for peace.
In the same vein, the state police commissioner, Mohammed Katsina, has assured the residents of their safety.
In a press release, the police boss said over 20, 000policemen and officers have been deployed to various locations in the state.
“Added to this is the robust intelligence unit made up of local police, special forcesfrom force headquarters, Abuja, have been deployed to sniff for and gather intelligence about movement of criminal elements”, he said.
Mr. Katsina said in furtherance of the police determination to guarantee peace and tranquility, he held a peace meeting with various associations including members of NURTW, RTEAN.
“It was unanimously agreed at the meeting that participants should cooperate with the police and sister agencies to ensure free, fair and credible elections.
“As we pledge to maintain law and order, I will like to reiterate my earlier warning to the so-called political thugs and their sponsors that I will spare no efforts in dealing decisively with any one or group of persons who may contemplate breaching public peace and order”, the CP stated.
