By MUFTAU OGUNYEMI

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned parents not to allow their children and wards to be used as political thugs for the 2027 general elections.

Dr Mutiu Agboke, Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ondo State, gave the warning on Friday in Okitipupa Local Government Area at the Ondo South Senatorial District stakeholders’ meeting in preparation for the 2027 general election.

The REC, who said youths needed to be encouraged and guided to participate positively in politics, explained that they should not be allowed to be used by desperate politicians to disrupt the electoral process.

“As youths, you are the future leaders and you also have the capacity to contest for political offices rather than being used by politicians to perpetrate violence and other illegal activities.

“Our parents need to monitor their wards and counsel them against electoral violence, vote-buying and thuggery.

“Also, political parties should educate their members on responsible political conduct, peaceful campaigns and proper voting procedures, starting from the ward level,” he said.

Agboke, who said the commission was committed to conducting free and credible election, urged collaboration among INEC, political parties and the media to help reduce criminality during elections.

Also, Oba Obasegun Williams Akinyomi, Amapetu of Mahin kingdom, commended INEC for the electoral advocacy, and called for more enlightenment and involvement of major stakeholders in the electoral process

Akinyomi, represented by the Olisa of Mahin, High Chief Okunuwa Felix, urged eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) and exercise their civic responsibility during the election.

“Some people are losing interest in participating in the voting but citizens must be encouraged to participate actively in elections,” he said.

Similarly, Mrs Stella Adetokunbo, National Orientation Agency (NOA) Officer in Ile-Oluji/ Okeigbo Local Government Area, urged residents to collect their PVCs to actively participate in the election.

“All eligible voters who are yet to collect their PVCs should do so, while stakeholders should mobilise residents and their followers to participate in the collection exercise.

“This will promote national consciousness, responsible citizenship, peaceful coexistence and build a peaceful society,” she said. (NAN)