The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Lucky Ayedatiwa, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the 2024 Ondo governorship election. Ayedatiwa emerged victorious after sweeping all 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state.
Announcing the results at the State Collation Centre in Akure, the State Returning Officer, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, confirmed Ayedatiwa’s landslide win with a total of 366,781 votes, defeating his closest opponent, Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 117,845 votes.
The election, conducted across 3,933 polling units, was largely peaceful, with voter turnout and materials arriving on time. Collation of results began early Sunday morning, and the final declaration was made later in the afternoon.
Breakdown of LGAs Results
Ayedatiwa’s dominance was evident in all 18 LGAs, including key areas like:
- Akure South: APC: 32,969; PDP: 17,926
- Okitipupa: APC: 26,811; PDP: 10,233
- Ilaje: APC: 24,474; PDP: 3,632
- Ese Odo: APC: 14,511; PDP: 7,814
In some LGAs, Ayedatiwa’s victory was particularly significant, as he won in areas traditionally aligned with the opposition. For example, he defeated the PDP in Idanre, home to the PDP’s running mate, Festus Akingbaso.
Opposition Reactions
While the election was largely peaceful, there were claims of irregularities in certain areas. A PDP agent alleged issues of ballot snatching and intimidation in specific polling units, urging INEC to review the results from those locations.
As Ayedatiwa prepares for his second term, many will look to his administration to build on his previous achievements and address critical issues in the state. His victory is seen as a mandate to continue steering Ondo toward progress and development.
