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The outgoing Resident Electoral Commissioner in Osun State, Dr Mutiu Agboke, on Tuesday urged staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission to maintain professionalism and ensure that only the will of the electorate determines the winners of the elections.
Agboke gave the commission during his farewell address at a handover ceremony held at the Segun Agbaje Hall, INEC Headquarters, Osogbo.
The REC, which will be redeployed to another state, warned election officials against compromising their duties, stressing that any action that undermines democratic values would exacerbate voter apathy and erode public trust in the electoral process.
“Make sure you allow the mandate of the electorate to determine the winner of any election. Do not allow yourself to be used for any form of cheating in the discharge of your duties,” he said.
He added that INEC, as a statutory body, must continually reassure Nigerians that their votes will count, stressing that any deviation from this principle would be detrimental to the nation’s democracy.
Reflecting on his leadership style, Agboke acknowledged different perceptions among staff, some of whom describe him as tough and others as lenient.
However, he explained that his approach was driven by a commitment to instilling discipline and a culture of doing the right thing regardless of pressure.
“Whatever perception you have of me, know that it was all in the interest of making sure that I always did the right thing at all times,” he said.
The outgoing REC warned staff against allowing themselves to be manipulated by external influences, warning that such actions could leave them vulnerable in the long term.
“Remember, if you are used, you will eventually be dumped and left to fend for yourself,” he said.
Agboke commended the staff for their dedication, describing them as the best team he had worked with since joining the commission. He also appreciated the stakeholders for their contribution to the electoral process in the State.
He expressed optimism that collaboration among stakeholders will continue to strengthen the conduct of credible elections across the country.
“As I leave for another state, we will remain in touch in this onerous task of managing elections,” he added.
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