During the All Progressives Congress primary election, concerns have been raised by some stakeholders regarding the conduct of the electoral process by the election committee.
Claiming bias in the committee’s actions, aggrieved party members pointed fingers at the committee chaired by Kogi State Governor, Mr. Usman Ododo.
Upon his arrival at the distribution center in the Ijapo area of Akure, Ododo addressed disgruntled stakeholders regarding the distribution of electoral materials to Ondo South and South-North Senatorial Districts, with materials yet to be sent to Ondo Central (as of 10:30 am).
Expressing disbelief in Ododo’s statements, aspirant Gbenga Edema contradicted the governor’s claims, asserting that no distribution of election materials had occurred.
Edema stated, “I have been present since 6:30 am and observed no materials leaving this location. The election officers for Mahin Ward 2 in Ilaje Local Government are here, unable to access any materials.
“Our demand is for a fair election. Therefore, we urge the party leadership to investigate. If they are unprepared, they should postpone the election and ensure fairness prevails.”
Sola Arowosafe, Programme Officer of the Wale Akinterinwa Campaign Organisation, echoed the sentiments, calling for the cancellation of the entire process due to alleged unfairness in the committee’s conduct.
Arowingafe asserted, “Bringing Ododo to Ondo state tarnishes the party’s image and the state’s integrity. No primary election took place, no materials were distributed. We urge the party leadership to appoint a neutral figure, similar to what was done in Edo state, for a new primary election, allowing Ondo residents to freely select their candidate.”
“Without corrective action from the party leadership, we will respond accordingly. If results are announced, we inform the party leadership and President Bola Tinubu that no legitimate election occurred in Ondo state, and no materials were provided for a candidate selection.”
Aide to the aspirant, Chief Olusola Oke, Mr. Rotimi Ogunleye, criticized the committee for disregarding the election guidelines.
Ogunleye lamented, “Arriving at 6:30 am, unaware of when or where materials were dispatched to Ondo South and North senatorial districts, no materials were sent out.
“Why deviate from due process? The national party leadership must rein in Ododo, ensuring adherence to the released guidelines,” demanded Ogunleye.