With 98% of the results from yesterday’s governorship election in Ondo State uploaded to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) Result Viewing (IREV) portal, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) appears set for a decisive victory.
Figures independently tallied from the portal show Aiyedatiwa maintaining an unassailable lead over his closest rival, Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Ajayi, a former deputy governor of the state, trailed significantly and expressed frustration over logistical challenges during the election.
Speaking after casting his vote in his hometown of Kiribo in Ese-Odo Local Government Area, Ajayi criticized the performance of the INEC Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), stating, “It took more than 10 minutes for the BVAS to capture me.”
Despite his disappointment, Ajayi secured victory in his polling unit, Apoi Ward 11, Unit 004, with 194 votes against Aiyedatiwa’s three.
However, this local success did little to close the statewide gap, as Aiyedatiwa garnered widespread support across Ondo’s 18 local government areas.
….APC Celebrates Early Signs of Victory
As results streamed in, celebrations began in the APC camp. By 5:15 p.m., APC National Secretary Dr. Ajibola Basiru shared his excitement on social media, posting on X: “Our mood in Akure now!!! Alhamdulilah,” accompanied by a smiling photo of himself.
The election, described as largely peaceful, saw commendable early deployment of electoral materials.
INEC reported that 97% of polling units were operational by 8:30 a.m., with the remaining units opening by 10 a.m.
Ilaje Mobilization Drives Massive Turnout
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s hometown of Ilaje witnessed unprecedented voter turnout, as residents united to support their “son.”
A jetty at Ugbonla was packed as early as 6 a.m. with voters traveling from Delta, Edo, Lagos, and beyond.
“We have never had it like this before,” said a local business owner. “People are coming from different parts of the world to vote for our son.”
The Olubo of Obenla, Oba Kolawole Andrew, also highlighted the community’s determination. “We, as leaders, want Aiyedatiwa to win,” he said after casting his vote. “Our immediate need is embankment, especially sea incursion. We want it solved.”
…APC Stalwarts and Stakeholders Laud Process
Two prominent APC figures, Chief Olusola Oke and Dr. Soji Ehinlanwo, emphasized the unity among Ondo’s Ijaw and Apoi communities.
Oke noted, “The Ilaje have been yearning for leadership since 1976, and you can understand the joy of the people.”
Business mogul Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, who cast his vote in Okitipupa, described the election as free, fair, and credible.
“I can say that definitely, APC will win this election,” Ibrahim stated confidently.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, who voted at Unit 5 in Ilaje, expressed optimism about the outcome, citing his campaign’s extensive outreach.
“I was the only candidate that covered the entire state. I believe the love the people showed will translate into votes today,” he said.
…PDP’s Stronghold in Idanre Offers Slim Resistance
The PDP found its strongest support in Idanre, where Ajayi’s running mate, Festus Akingbaso, is from. The party secured 187 votes in Polling Unit 8, Ward 2, AladeOkun, compared to APC’s 46 votes.
As final results awaited INEC’s official announcement, the APC’s dominance appeared unshakable, setting the stage for Aiyedatiwa’s second term as governor of Ondo State.
