Governor Ademola Adeleke has urged members of the 2026 Batch B, Stream I of the National Youth Service Corps deployed to the state to remain apolitical ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

Mr Adeleke gave the charge on Monday while declaring open the 2026 Batch B, Stream I Orientation Course at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in the Ede area of the state.

The governor, represented by the commissioner for budget and economic planning, Moruf Adeleke, emphasised the need for neutrality and professionalism, especially for corps members who may be involved in the electoral process.

According to him, the state is approaching a critical period with the forthcoming governorship election.

“I urge you, as corps members, to remain apolitical and professional in the discharge of your electoral duties.

“Do not allow the credibility of our electoral process to be marred by your actions. The state is looking up to you to help ensure the integrity of the election.

“I implore you to shun all forms of undue influence and uphold the ideals and regulations of both the NYSC scheme and the Independent National Electoral Commission,” he said.

The governor also advised the corps members to comply with camp rules and regulations in order to maximise the benefits of the orientation exercise.

Mr Adeleke assured them of his administration’s continued commitment to their welfare and safety, urging them to approach their assignments with patriotism, humility and dedication to national development.

The NYSC coordinator in the state, Ekeng Kubiangha, commended the governor for his administration’s sustained support for the scheme.

Mr Kubiangha disclosed that a total of 3,000 corps members were deployed to the state, comprising 1,600 females and 1,400 males.

He stressed that the credibility of any election depends largely on the integrity of all stakeholders and advised the corps members not to succumb to inducement or undue pressure.

“As corps members who may be called upon to participate in the electoral process, I urge you to remain apolitical, impartial and professional in the discharge of your responsibilities.

“Do not allow yourselves to be influenced by any form of inducement or undue pressure. Adhere strictly to INEC guidelines. By doing so, you will contribute meaningfully to the conduct of a peaceful, free, fair and credible election,” he said.

Mr Kubiangha also encouraged the corps members to embrace Nigeria’s diversity by building friendships across ethnic, religious and cultural lines.

He further urged them to comply with all camp rules and regulations, noting that they are designed to ensure safety, promote discipline and enhance overall development.

(NAN)