As preparations intensify for the local council election in Ogun State on November 16, the Community Advocacy for Peace and Strategic Leadership Initiative (CAPSL-Initiative) has urged stakeholders to adhere to the established rules. The organization emphasized that political parties, voters, and other involved parties must follow the regulations set by the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) to ensure a peaceful electoral process. CAPSL-Initiative specifically requested that all parties refrain from actions that could threaten the peace and security of the Gateway State. In a statement released on Sunday, signed by Chairman Akwuobi Francis and Secretary Pius Pamela, the civil society group noted that investigations have shown that security agencies in the state have implemented measures to maintain a violence-free election.

The group urged the relevant authorities responsible for maintaining peace and order in the state to remain steadfast and resolute in fulfilling their collective duties. It is worth noting that in August, Mr. Babatunde Osibodu, the chairman of the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission, announced the date for the council election. This decision to conduct the election came about a month after the Supreme Court granted financial autonomy to local governments, a significant ruling seen as a result of judicial activism. Part of the statement reads: "As political parties prepare for the crucial stages of the local government elections on November 16, we at CAPSL-Initiative urge all stakeholders to uphold decorum and adhere to the rules."

"While we acknowledge that politics involves a struggle for power and the allocation of resources, we emphasize that this process must adhere to the established rules, regulations, and guidelines set forth by the OGSIEC. Therefore, political parties and their candidates should manage their supporters by communicating that elections are not a matter of life and death, but rather a democratic process that allows voters to make informed decisions. We are aware that, following the recent Supreme Court ruling that has loosened state governments' control over the third tier of government, the stakes are particularly high. Nevertheless, we advise caution, as past experiences have shown that conflicts often arise from imposition, which poses risks to security and public safety."

"We would like to commend the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Abiodun, along with the leaders of relevant authorities, for establishing peace and security in the state, which has resulted in enhanced investment opportunities. 

"Lastly, we want to reassure the people of Ogun State that investigations have shown that the dual security issues of kidnapping and cultism are being addressed appropriately. 

"As is our custom, we urge the public to report individuals with suspicious behavior or activities to the appropriate security agencies, especially since security has become a collective responsibility for society."

Kano State Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has congratulated Senator Monday Okpebholo on his victory in the Edo State Governorship election.

In a statement released on Monday evening in Abuja by Edwin Olofu, the Chief Press Secretary to the APC National Chairman, it was noted that “This victory clearly reflects the confidence that the great people of Edo State have in the progressive vision and leadership of the APC administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

The National Chairman Ganduje extended the party's heartfelt greetings to Okpebholo.

He highlighted that Okpebholo's success represents the trust and confidence in his leadership, as well as the commitment and hard work of other party members and supporters who contributed to a fair, just, and peaceful election.

Ganduje expressed his belief that with Senator Okpebholo leading, Edo State is poised for exceptional growth, unity, and development that will improve the lives of its citizens.

"He guaranteed that Okpebholo will maintain the principles of effective governance, transparency, and commitment to the people, which have been the cornerstone of the APC's vision for Nigeria," the statement concluded.