The Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) has commenced the distribution of non-sensitive materials to the 18 local government areas ahead of the Jan. 18 local government elections in the state.

Joseph Aremo, the ODIEC chairman, made this known in a statement signed and made available to journalists on Saturday in Akure by the Press Officer of ODIEC, Mrs. Bisi Lawan.

According to Mr Aremo, the non-sensitive materials distributed include ballot boxes, among others, while the ad-hoc staff who will be working on election day have been recruited and trained.

Mr Aremo said the commission had also met with stakeholders that were key to the success of the election.

“The non-sensitive election materials required for the elections have been distributed to the 18 local government ODIEC offices.

“The electoral umpire is working with relevant security agencies to ensure the security of the election materials.

“Also, the commission is fully committed to conducting a free, fair, credible, transparent, peaceful and inclusive election in the state,” he said.

Mr Aremo, therefore, urged the electorate to come out en-masse on election day to exercise their franchise and contribute to the democratic process.

The ODIEC chairman, however, advised all political parties, candidates, and their supporters to eschew violence and respect the rules of engagement.

(NAN)