The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the training of Presiding Officers (POs) and Assistant Presiding Officers (APOs) ahead of the Ondo South Senatorial District bye-election scheduled for June 20, 2026.

The training exercise, which began on Friday, June 12, 2026, is taking place simultaneously at designated centres across the six local government areas that make up the Ondo South Senatorial District, as part of the Commission's preparations for a credible, peaceful and transparent electoral process.

Leading the monitoring exercise, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ondo State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, accompanied by the Administrative Secretary, Mrs. Adenike Tadese, visited several training centres to assess the level of preparedness and ensure strict compliance with INEC's operational guidelines.

Addressing participants during the visits, Dr. Agboke emphasized the critical role of electoral personnel in the successful conduct of elections and urged them to demonstrate the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, neutrality and diligence in the discharge of their responsibilities.

He noted that the effectiveness of Presiding Officers and Assistant Presiding Officers is fundamental to maintaining public confidence in the electoral process, stressing that all officials must be thoroughly familiar with election-day procedures and guidelines.

"The Commission remains committed to conducting a free, fair and credible bye-election. This can only be achieved through well-trained personnel who understand their duties and are prepared to carry them out with utmost professionalism," he said.

The training sessions focused on key aspects of election administration, including accreditation procedures, voter verification, result management, use of electoral technology, adherence to electoral laws and regulations, as well as effective handling of election-day challenges.

Among the centres visited was Gboluji Grammar School, Ile-Oluji, where dozens of Presiding Officers and Assistant Presiding Officers underwent intensive training on electoral processes and best practices.

Similarly, training activities were observed at Odigbo Local Government Area, where participants engaged in practical sessions designed to enhance their operational readiness for the forthcoming poll.

At Ilaje High School, another designated training venue, electoral officials received comprehensive instruction aimed at strengthening their capacity to deliver a smooth and efficient voting process across polling units within the senatorial district.

The Ondo South Senatorial bye-election is expected to fill the vacant seat representing the district in the National Assembly.