As the Ondo State governorship election approaches, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) are exchanging accusations over plans to jeopardize the results of the polls scheduled for Saturday.
The state PDP, in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Mr. Kennedy Peretei, on Tuesday, alleged that the APC intends to undermine the electoral process.
According to Peretei, “The Ondo APC Chairman, Mr. Ade Adetimehin, has submitted the names of APC members who will serve as temporary officers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during the election period.”
Peretei maintained that the alleged move undermined the neutrality expected of INEC in conducting fair elections.
The PDP’s claims have heightened concerns over the transparency of elections in Ondo, with Peretei saying, “This alleged attempt to infiltrate INEC with party supporters is an affront to democratic values and people’s choice. ” he claimed.
In response, the APC dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated. The party’s spokesperson stressed that the APC has no intention of compromising the polls, citing intensive efforts to ensure victory through legal means.
Peretei said: “The whole world is watching and this move by Mr. Adetihin is in line with our commitment to the reassignment of Ondo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Oluwatoyin Babalola, whom Mr. Adetihin is supporting this evil.” “We have proven the validity of the demands we made.”
“Our party would like to advise all actors to play according to the rules.
“The whole world is watching, and no one can hide a finger.”
Reacting, APC spokesperson Alex Kalejei said there was no need to compromise the polls as the party was campaigning in all the 18 local governments in the state.
Mr Kalejay said: We have engaged with all strata of society. We focus on improving the lives of people living in difficult circumstances.
“Many projects are underway aimed at economic and physical transformation of the state, so we will continue to appeal to the people.
“Tomorrow, we will gather everyone together for a grand finale rally and send the same message of continuity. But we will not go so far as to violate the Constitution to win an election.
“We have accomplished the job we set out to do and I am confident that people will cooperate with us. There is no reason to take inappropriate action to ensure victory.”
On Saturday, Ondo governor, APC candidate Lucky Ayedatiwa and PDP candidate Agboola Ajayi will vie for the state’s top job.
