By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
A chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and former senatorial aspirant for Ogun West Senatorial District, Abioro Damilare Athande, has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for what he described as “remarkable improvements” in Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Abioro gave the commendation on Monday after completing his Permanent Voters Card (PVC) transfer verification at the INEC Local Government Area office in Ipokia, Ogun State, describing the experience as evidence of concrete reforms within the electoral body.
“I must sincerely commend INEC for the significant progress it has made since the 2023 general election, particularly in the areas of technology deployment, administrative efficiency and logistics,” Abioro said. “My experience today at the Ipokia INEC office clearly shows that the system has improved beyond expectations.”
The NNPP chieftain noted that the professionalism and hospitality displayed by INEC officials during his visit reflected a renewed institutional commitment to credible elections and improved voter engagement.
“On getting to the INEC office, I was pleasantly surprised to be welcomed right from the entrance by the Electoral Officer himself, who was actively coordinating junior colleagues preparing for the ongoing nationwide voters’ registration exercise,” he stated. “This level of hands-on leadership is encouraging and reassuring.”
Abioro specifically applauded the efforts of Mr. Ojikutu Hammed Olaitan, the Electoral Officer of INEC in Ipokia Local Government Area, alongside other officials including Mr. Hassan Lawal and Alhaji Osunwari Rafiu, for their dedication to ensuring a smooth and inclusive voter registration process across the council area.
“I want to appreciate Mr. Ojikutu Hammed Olaitan and his team for their tireless efforts in making voter registration accessible and efficient for the people of Ipokia,” he said. “Their commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and maintaining positive relationships with the host communities deserves recognition.”
He used the opportunity to call on eligible voters in Ipokia and surrounding communities to take advantage of the ongoing registration and verification exercise, stressing that civic participation remains the backbone of democratic governance.
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“I encourage my people in Ipokia Local Government and its environs to go out en masse and register ahead of the coming general election,” Abioro urged. “Your voter’s card is your power—it is the tool through which good and credible leaders can emerge.”
Abioro also extended prayers for the nation, calling for sustained reforms and institutional integrity in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“May God Almighty continue to bless our beloved country, Nigeria, and guide all institutions working to deepen our democracy,” he added.
In a related note, the NNPP stalwart congratulated Ogun State as it marks its 50th anniversary, describing the state as a significant contributor to Nigeria’s political, economic and human capital development.
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“I also join millions of Nigerians in celebrating Ogun State—our Gateway State—at 50,” Abioro said. “Ogun has made remarkable contributions to the growth of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and I am confident that greater milestones lie ahead.”
