The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has organised a one-day capacity-building workshop for Voter Education Desk Officers and Assistant Electoral Officers (AEOs) Admin from Ondo, Ekiti and Osun States ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Declaring the workshop open, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ondo State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, described voter education as central to the success of any democratic election.

Agboke said an informed citizen would be better positioned to make an independent choice, comply with electoral procedures, reject misinformation and participate peacefully in the electoral process.

According to him, accurate explanations by election officials could prevent voters from being disenfranchised, while correcting myths and misinformation could help restore public confidence in the electoral process.

“Every community we reach may contribute to a more peaceful and participatory election,” he said, urging participants to approach their responsibilities with diligence, humility and a deep sense of duty.

The REC also charged the officers to take voter education messages to every ward, community and polling unit as the Commission prepares for the 2027 election.

In his welcome address, the Head of Voter Education and Publicity, INEC Ondo State, Ogbeni Yinka Ogunseye, said voter education goes beyond informing citizens about where and when to vote.

He explained that it also involves promoting civic responsibility and helping citizens understand their obligations to their communities and the country.

Ogunseye said citizens who understand their civic responsibilities were less likely to sell their votes or stay away from the electoral process because of apathy.

He added that the training was designed to strengthen the capacity of INEC personnel to coordinate and deliver more effective voter education and publicity programmes across the South-West zone.

The workshop featured practical group demonstrations on the development and presentation of voter education materials, messages and skits, allowing participants to apply skills acquired during the sessions.

The sessions were facilitated by two officials from INEC Headquarters, the Deputy Director, Voter Education, Mrs. Paula Iwenjiora, and the Principal Information Officer, Mr. Eniola Oladapo, who provided practical insights into effective voter education, communication and public enlightenment ahead of the 2027 General Election.