President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on political stakeholders and voters in Ondo State to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process as residents head to the polls today to elect their governor for the next four years.
Speaking through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu emphasized the importance of maturity and decorum in upholding democratic principles.
“As the people of Ondo State prepare to choose their leader, it is crucial that we respect their right to decide their future. The privilege to govern comes from the people, and this must be honored by all candidates and political parties,” Tinubu said in a statement issued yesterday in Abuja.
The President commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for ensuring the timely distribution of sensitive electoral materials to the state’s 18 local government areas. He also lauded the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff for deploying security personnel to safeguard the electoral process.
Tinubu urged citizens to exercise their voting rights freely, assuring them of safety during and after the elections. He reiterated his commitment to consolidating Nigeria’s 25-year democratic journey, describing credible elections as essential for national stability and growth.
Tight Security Amid Minimal Violence
Security has been reinforced across Ondo State, with over 22,239 police officers and additional personnel from other agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, Civil Defence Corps, and Federal Road Safety Corps, deployed to ensure orderliness at polling units.
Deputy Inspector General of Police, Abiodun Alabi, who is overseeing security operations for the election, pledged fairness and strict adherence to the law.
“We will render all necessary assistance to INEC officials to facilitate the discharge of their responsibilities and provide adequate contingency plans to contain any crisis that may directly or indirectly arise before, during, or after the conduct of the election,” Alabi said.
He assured the public that all electoral offenders would face prosecution, adding that security agencies are committed to providing a level playing field for all political parties and candidates.
Key Contenders and Voter Turnout
Among the 1,793,914 eligible voters in the state, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Mr. Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are considered the leading contenders.
INEC disclosed that this election saw an increase in voter eligibility, with 315,454 more eligible voters compared to the 2020 gubernatorial election. Sensitive materials for the election were distributed under heavy security, with party agents closely monitoring the process.
Despite the tight security, one incident of pre-election violence was reported in Idanre Local Government Area, where seven PDP members were hospitalized following an attack by suspected thugs.
Movement Restrictions in Place
To ensure smooth conduct, a restriction on vehicular movement has been imposed from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. today. Exemptions apply to essential services such as ambulances, fire services, and accredited media personnel.
With the stage set and security reinforced, Ondo State voters will play their part in shaping the state’s leadership for the next four years.
