Segun Adeyemi

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<h2>Mr Agboola Ajayi, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the Ondo State governorship election, has strongly criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its handling of the poll in Kiribo, Ese-Odo Local Government Area.</h2>

Speaking shortly after casting his vote at Unit 4, Ward 2 Idumado in Kiribo, Ajayi decried the inefficiency of the INEC Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).

“It took more than 10 minutes for the BVAS to capture me,” said Ajayi, who is a former deputy governor of the state.

Ajayi accused INEC and the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Barr. Oluwatoyin Babalola, of deliberate misconduct.

“If INEC cannot successfully organise an election in just one state, then you must know we are running into anarchy. The system is compromised,” he alleged.

He further claimed widespread complaints from voters regarding BVAS malfunctions and <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/ondo-governorship-election-dss-arrests-vote-buyer-with-bags-of-cash/wqjgqp2">alleged vote-buying.</a>

“People are complaining of vote buying, BVAS problems. It is a very shameful exercise,” he said.

Ajayi also called for the resignation of INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, asserting, “We have said it severally that we don’t trust Barr. Oluwatoyin Babalola (REC). This woman cannot be fair.”

The PDP candidate’s remarks reflect mounting concerns over the credibility of the Ondo governorship election.

These allegations add to the growing scrutiny of INEC’s ability to conduct free and fair elections in Nigeria.

Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Agboola Ajayi allegedly plans to defect to the PDP on Monday, June 22, 2020. (G9ija)

Mr Agboola Ajayi, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the Ondo State governorship election, has strongly criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its handling of the poll in Kiribo, Ese-Odo Local Government Area.

'INEC cannot be trusted' - PDP's Agboola Ajayi alleges bias in Ondo election

<h2>The Department of State Services (DSS) has apprehended an alleged vote-buyer during the Ondo State governorship election. </h2>

The suspect was caught with two bags of money believed to be intended for voter inducement.

According to reports, the arrest occurred at Ward 4, Polling Unit 007, near St. Stephen’s Primary School in Akure, at approximately 9:00 am. DSS operatives acted swiftly to curtail the suspected electoral malpractice.

The Ondo governorship election,<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/ondo-guber-anxiety-mounts-as-17-million-voters-decide-governorship-race/g9brq0j"> a pivotal off-cycle exercise,</a> has drawn significant attention with 17 candidates vying for the seat.

Among the contenders is incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), who is seeking re-election.

Governor Aiyedatiwa voted earlier in the day at Polling Unit 6, Ward 4, in Obenla, Ilaje Local Government Area.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/ondo-guber-security-tightened-as-police-deploy-operatives-across-18-lgas/x4em9cq">Police mobilise force across Ondo State ahead of governorship polls</a>

Speaking after casting his vote, Aiyedatiwa expressed confidence in a fair electoral process. “The people of Ondo State deserve transparent and credible elections, and I am optimistic about our chances,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa’s main rival, Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is among the strong challengers aiming to unseat him in a contest marked by heightened security and voter engagement.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/ondo-2024-politicians-begin-vote-buying-with-food-cash-ahead-of-election/5kh7h8c">a free and fair election</a>, with more updates expected as the polls progress.

Department of State Services (DSS). [Facebook]

The Department of State Services (DSS) has apprehended an alleged vote-buyer during the Ondo State governorship election.

Ondo guber: DSS arrests vote-buyer with bags of cash

<h2>An atmosphere of anxiety grips Ondo State as 1,793,914 registered voters head to the polls today to elect their next governor. </h2>

The race pits incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) against Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a contest marred by last-minute controversies and heightened security concerns.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) approved <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/more-than-2m-registered-voters-will-participate-in-ondo-guber-poll-inec/n2lj5hk">17 political parties for the election,</a> but a court ruling on Wednesday, November 13, disqualified Olusola Ebiseni of the Labour Party, the third most prominent contender, disrupting the party’s campaign strategy.

Justice Adebukola Banjoko, chairing the Court of Appeal panel, ruled that Ebiseni’s candidacy was invalid, reinstating Olorunfemi Festus as the Labour Party's standard-bearer less than 24 hours before the polls. This decision led to confusion among Labour Party supporters.

“The appeal brought by the Labour Party is allowed,” Justice Banjoko declared. INEC swiftly complied, replacing Ebiseni’s name with Festus on Friday, November 15.

<h3>Vote Buying Allegations Surface</h3>

Yiaga Africa, an election monitoring organisation, recently flagged these activities as part of growing vote-buying concerns in Ondo. [Getty Images]

As election day unfolds, allegations of vote buying threaten to overshadow the democratic process. Hon. Samuel Boniface, the Labour Party youth leader in Ondo State, alleged that PDP stakeholders attempted to bribe him with over ₦100 million to dismantle the Labour Party’s structure.

“I declined because I have a goal. I can’t sell my conscience like that,” Boniface stated, adding that similar offers were made during his 2023 House of Representatives campaign.

Observers fear<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/ondo-2024-politicians-begin-vote-buying-with-food-cash-ahead-of-election/5kh7h8c"> these inducements could undermine the credibility of the election,</a> with both major parties accused of voter manipulation.

<h3>Security and Violence Concerns</h3>

Election day also brings heightened security risks following reports of attacks in Idanre and Owo. In Idanre, suspected armed thugs assaulted PDP members, hospitalising six individuals. PDP officials accused APC supporters of orchestrating the violence.

In Owo, memories of the 2022 terrorist massacre that claimed over 70 lives loom large, fuelling fears of election-day unrest.

Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun announced<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/ondo-guber-security-tightened-as-police-deploy-operatives-across-18-lgas/x4em9cq"> the deployment of over 22,000 officers to safeguard lives and property.</a> Security personnel have taken positions at strategic locations across the state.

“Effective security measures are in place to ensure voters can exercise their rights without fear,” the police assured.

<h3>Critical Test for Democracy</h3>

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials sort and count ballots during the vote counting process at a polling station in Kano on February 25, 2023, during Nigeria's presidential and general election. [Getty Images]

As voting begins, Ondo residents remain hopeful that the election will reflect the will of the people despite the challenges.

The outcome is seen as a litmus test for Nigeria's democratic resilience amid allegations of corruption and threats to voter safety.

INEC and security agencies face immense pressure to deliver a transparent, credible, and peaceful election in Ondo State.

L-R: Olorunfemi Festus (LP), Gov Lucky Aiyedatiwa (APC), and Agboola Ajayi (PDP). [Facebook/PremiumTimes]

An atmosphere of anxiety grips Ondo State as 1,793,914 registered voters head to the polls today to elect their next governor.

Tension peaks as 1.7 million Ondo voters decide governorship race

<h2>The Nigeria Police Force has intensified security across Ondo State’s 18 Local Government Areas ahead of the governorship election scheduled for Saturday, November 16.</h2>

With officers deployed to all 203 wards and 3,933 polling units, the Force assures citizens of a peaceful voting process.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police Sylvester Alabi, addressing reporters in Akure, highlighted the importance of comprehensive security measures.

“Our proactive deployment covers all local government areas to deter interference and ensure safety,” he said.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/ondo-2024-politicians-begin-vote-buying-with-food-cash-ahead-of-election/5kh7h8c">Ondo politicians begin vote-buying with food, cash ahead of election day</a>

Alabi emphasised the need for cooperation between security agencies and the public to maintain law and order throughout the election period.

Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force’s Public Relations Officer, provided details of the deployment. “At least four police officers, in collaboration with other security personnel, will be stationed at each polling unit to guarantee smooth conduct,” he stated in a press release on Thursday, November 14.

The DIG also assured the public that contingency plans are in place to tackle any disruptions. “We are committed to responding appropriately to any issue that arises before, during, or after the polls,” he said.

READ ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/more-than-2m-registered-voters-will-participate-in-ondo-guber-poll-inec/n2lj5hk">More than 2 million registered voters will participate in Ondo guber poll - INEC</a>

Additionally, he warned that any individual attempting to breach electoral guidelines would face arrest and prosecution.

The police called on voters to adhere strictly to the Electoral Act and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

With these measures, the Force aims to ensure a secure and seamless democratic exercise, inspiring confidence in the state’s electoral process.

Operatives of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF). [Getty Images]

The Nigeria Police Force has intensified security across Ondo State’s 18 Local Government Areas ahead of the governorship election scheduled for Saturday, November 16.

Police mobilise force across Ondo State ahead of governorship polls

<h2>As Ondo State's governorship election approaches, a coalition of All Progressives Congress (APC) factions has officially declared support for Benson Akingboye, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, over the APC's candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. </h2>

This declaration is led by groups such as Ondo Patriots, Ondo APC Solidarity Group, Jagaban Coalition, and the APC Youth League, who cite concerns about Aiyedatiwa's selection process and ability to lead.

In a statement released on Sunday, Comrade Dele Oyewo of Ondo Patriots voiced the coalition's frustration with the APC's decision-making.

"The process that produced Aiyedatiwa was flawed, an insult to electoral fairness," Oyewo said.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/pdp-believes-itll-be-difficult-for-apc-to-win-edo-ondo-governorship-polls/g8hnbpe">PDP believes it’ll be difficult for APC to win Edo, Ondo governorship polls</a>

He added that Akingboye's business background&nbsp;and&nbsp;"spiritual insights"&nbsp;make him a stronger choice for Ondo's future.

The groups dismissed rumours that members of the SDP were defecting to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), labelling such claims as "fabrications pushed by PDP governors."

Instead, the coalition affirmed that Akingboye, having contributed significantly to the PDP over 24 years before joining APC, remains committed to Ondo's development.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/more-than-2m-registered-voters-will-participate-in-ondo-guber-poll-inec/n2lj5hk">More than 2 million registered voters will participate in Ondo guber poll - INEC</a>

According to the coalition, Akingboye offers a unique approach, especially for the "deteriorating state" of Ondo's industrial sector. They envision revitalising industries like Oluwa Glass in Okitipupa and the Olosunta Oil Palm Industry, which have stalled under the current leadership.

"With Benson Akingboye at the helm, Ondo has a chance for a transformative industrial future," said Oyewo, reflecting a growing factional rift within the APC that could shape Ondo's political landscape ahead of the election.

L-R: SDP Benson Akingboye and APC's Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State. [Facebook]

As Ondo State's governorship election approaches, a coalition of All Progressives Congress (APC) factions has officially declared support for Benson Akingboye, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, over the APC's candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Ondo Poll: APC faction declares for SDP's Akingboye against Aiyedatiwa

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