With just days to the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State, political parties have committed to a peaceful and orderly poll by signing a Peace Accord on Friday. The event, organized by the National Peace Committee under the leadership of former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar, gathered party representatives at the International Culture and Event Centre in Akure, the state capital. Major parties, including the APC, PDP, Labour Party, and Zenith Labour Party, among others, pledged to honor the accord in the spirit of promoting democracy.
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, emphasized the significance of peaceful elections and encouraged candidates and their supporters to adhere strictly to the accord, adding that INEC has deployed over 17,000 personnel to manage election logistics across Ondo’s 4,154 voting locations.
In his remarks, Inspector General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun announced an extensive security deployment plan for the polls, including over 43,000 personnel, reinforced by additional support from other security agencies. He assured voters that law enforcement would prioritize safety to ensure a smooth electoral process.
A Two-Horse Race: Aiyedatiwa vs. Ajayi
The election sees incumbent APC candidate, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, vying against PDP’s Agboola Ajayi, both prominent figures with solid track records and influential support bases.
Lucky Aiyedatiwa (APC) Sworn in as governor following the passing of Rotimi Akeredolu, Aiyedatiwa has utilized his time in office to launch infrastructural projects and boost social welfare initiatives. His recent projects include road construction, youth empowerment programs, and a steady improvement in public health services. Aiyedatiwa’s strengths lie in his position as the incumbent, offering him resources and influence under federal support.
However, APC’s declining popularity due to perceived economic hardships under the Tinubu administration may pose challenges, with some citizens associating the party with stagnation and inflation.
Agboola Ajayi (PDP) PDP’s Agboola Ajayi, a former deputy governor and grassroots politician, boasts significant support across Ondo’s rural areas. Known for his hands-on approach, Ajayi is viewed as relatable by many locals. He has proposed a comprehensive agenda focusing on food security, public safety, and primary healthcare expansion across Ondo.
Meanwhile, Ajayi’s main hurdle remains the internal strife within the PDP, which could split his support base. However, his popularity among common citizens and practical policies in education, agriculture, and health may counterbalance these internal tensions.
A Historic Election in the Making
Furthermore, As Ondo prepares for its next off-cycle governorship election, General Abubakar emphasized the need for peaceful conduct and urged voters to resist vote-buying, noting it undermines the democratic process. INEC has assured citizens of its commitment to a credible election, with enhanced logistics and rigorous security measures in place.
Also, With an expected voter turnout of over two million, the Ondo election promises to set a benchmark for future off-cycle polls.
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