The winner of the Ondo State Governorship Election is expected to be announced soon after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) successfully uploaded 98% of results on its Result Viewing Portal by Saturday night.
As of 10:55 p.m., INEC had transmitted results from 3,875 out of the 3,933 polling units across the state, paving the way for the final collation and announcement of the winner.
Widespread Vote-Buying Allegations
Despite the efficiency in uploading results, the election was marred by allegations of widespread vote-buying. Reports emerged of party loyalists distributing money near polling units to sway voters, a recurring challenge in Nigeria’s electoral processes.
Key Candidates and Voter Expectations
INEC revealed that 17 political parties participated in the election, with 1,793,914 registered voters expected to determine the outcome. The contest was widely seen as a two-horse race between incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Security and Logistics
To ensure a smooth and secure election, the Nigerian Police Force deployed 22,239 officers, supported by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), which provided 1,500 personnel, 25 patrol vehicles, seven tow trucks, and six ambulances. Additionally, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Department of State Services mobilized 6,000 personnel.
INEC ensured early deployment of voting materials across the state, with most polling units receiving supplies and staff before 8 a.m. Voting began promptly in many areas, with the first vote cast at 8:41 a.m. at Oke Imikan, Open Space, Alade Ward 02 in Idanre.
An INEC official noted, “We started the distribution of materials on time, and our polling unit officers left early. Hopefully, the election can proceed without delay.”
Low Voter Turnout
Despite the smooth logistics, several polling units reported low voter turnout. However, there was a significant turnout at the National Boat Jetty in Igbonla, Ilaje Local Government Area.
Vote-Buying Accusations
Dr. Eddy Olafeso, Director-General of the PDP Campaign Council, accused the APC of engaging in vote-buying, alleging that N10,000 was offered to each voter in his unit. He stated, “We have witnessed this here and have lodged complaints. The APC, which has done little for the people in four years, is using money to influence votes.”
In response, an APC chieftain, identified as Ademigun, dismissed the accusations as baseless, saying, “There is no proof of vote-buying. The PDP is merely afraid of the imminent defeat of its candidate.”
Next Steps
With INEC nearing the completion of result uploads, the focus now shifts to the final collation and declaration of the winner. The outcome is anticipated to reflect the will of the voters, despite the challenges witnessed during the process.
