The outgoing Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Kwara, Attahiru Madami, has advised members of staff of the commission to discharge their duties with all sense of integrity and honesty.

Mr Madami gave the charge on Saturday at the handing over ceremony after his five years tenure at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Ilorin.

He advised the workers not to allow anyone to buy their conscience and integrity. He warned against collecting bribes from politicians, cautioning that anybody that did would end up in jail.

Mr Madami expressed optimism that Kwara would continue to witness peaceful conduct of elections if his legacy continued.

“INEC job is very challenging, but once you make yourself open, trustworthy and have integrity, the job will be very easy.

“My staff know me very well; what I hate in my life is lies, once you start with lies you will continue with lies. It is better to be sincere,” he said.

He also called on the members of staff to cooperate and support the new REC coming to the state.

According to him, the successes recorded in the 2023 general election were a result of teamwork.

He commended them for their support and cooperation during his tenure, adding that elections in Kwara in the next eight years will be peaceful.

Mr Madami also appreciated the management team, the electoral officers for their support and dedication in the discharge of their duties, which led to the successes recorded during his five-year tenure.

In his remarks, the commission’s Administrative Secretary, Shehu Menyanga, who took over from Mr Madami, commended his leadership qualities and wished him well in his future endeavours.

The head of unit public affairs and protocol, Abdulkadir Ibrahim, described the outgoing REC as a good leader.

(NAN)