The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) request to remove Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ondo State, ahead of the upcoming gubernatorial election on November 16.
The PDP raised concerns about Babalola’s suitability for the role, alleging that her background and ties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state compromise her impartiality. They further claimed that INEC’s failure to clarify her state of origin undermines the credibility of the election.
Despite these concerns, INEC defended its decision to retain Babalola, stating that its policies on deploying and redeploying RECs are based on credible evidence of misconduct, not political pressure. The commission reiterated that Babalola’s lengthy residence and familial ties in Ondo make her eligible for the position.
INEC urged the PDP to collaborate in ensuring a free and fair election, maintaining that Babalola will not be redeployed without just cause.
