Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Federal Government to conduct a credible election in the 2018 governorship race.
He, however, expressed optimism that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), would emerge victorious in a free, fair and credible election in the state.
He also cautioned the Federal Government against the use of force or manipulative devices and plans in the election, adding that democracy needs a virile opposition to thrive.
Fayose stated this in Ado-Ekiti yesterday while reacting to INEC’s announcement that the election has been scheduled for July 14 next year.
“We are happy, prepared and expectant of the date for the election and it has come. I only want to appeal to INEC to live up to the expectation of Nigerians by conducting a poll devoid of manipulations. It must be credible, free and fair.
“The one we had in 2014 was rated high by local and international observers. In fact, the United States Government commended it and said it should be the benchmark for other elections in the country.
“I am aware of plans by some failed politicians to use INEC and federal might to take over Ekiti.
“We are on ground and nobody can use any foul means to take over Ekiti State. If they have been doing that elsewhere, that won’t work here. We will resist any attempts to manipulate anything here,” he stated.