Ondo Gov Election: PDP, APC Clash Over Recruitment Of Presiding Officers

By Ayodele Oni

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Ondo State Chapter, has alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) of imposing favourites as presiding officers in Saturday election and recommended them to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as part of rigging ploy.

The APC has, however, dismissed the allegation saying the party has no cause to rig the election.

PDP, in a statement on Tuesday, in Akure, by its spokesman, Kennedy Peretei stated that: “The sinister plan by the Ade Adetimehin led All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the November, 16 Governorship election has been revealed.

“The training of Presiding Officers and  Assistant Presiding Officers by Independent National Electoral Commission is a prerequisite for recruiting such ad-hoc staff to function in these capacities.

“Unfortunately, Ade Adetimehin has personally submitted a list of two persons, who are APC members per Polling Unit to INEC to serve as Presiding Officers and Assistant Presiding Officers, even when these persons did not attend the training.

“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Ondo State Chapter, wishes to alert the public that, the APC is banking on compromising the election at all costs, having failed tragically to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.

“The entire world is watching and this move by Adetimehin has vindicated our consistent call for the redeployment of Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, the Ondo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, who has Adetimehin’s backing in this evil.

“Our party wishes to admonish all actors to play according to the rule. The entire world is watching, and nobody can hide behind one finger.”

Alex Kalejaye, APC spokesman said that

“It is not true. We have no reason to contemplate compromising the election. We have worked very hard; we have worked for the people.

“A series of projects have been cited, and we are implementing numerous measures to improve conditions for the people. We have campaigned across the 18 local government areas, and we are prepared.

“We have appealed to the people, and they have shown understanding and a willingness to support the party. Therefore, we have no reason to even consider compromising the election; it is simply not true. This is just one of those fabrications from the PDP.

“We are working with the people; we have engaged every segment of society. Our focus is on improving the lives of those who are living in challenging conditions. Many projects are underway in the interest of the state’s economic and physical transformation. So, we will continue to appeal to the people.

“Tomorrow, we will hold our grand finale rally, gathering everyone together, and we will send the same message of continuity. However, we will not go to the extent of doing anything unconstitutional just to win an election.

“We have done the work we set out to do, and we are confident that the people are with us. There is no reason to take any improper actions to secure a victory.”

Meanwhile,  national chairman of Inter Party Advisory Council, (IPAC) Yusuf Dantalle has urged stakeholders in Saturday’s election to play the game according to the rules.

At a stakeholders engagement in Akure on Tuesday, he emphasized the significance of conducting a free, fair, and peaceful election.

“Stakeholders must all play by the rules, adhering to the electoral guidelines, constitution, and electoral act.

“To the voters in the State, we urge you to exercise your civic duty without hindrance. Vote for the candidates of your choice, based on their manifesto, track record, and leadership qualities.

“Reject any form of vote buying, as it undermines the integrity of our democracy. To the contestants, we urge you to know that the will of the electorates is sacrosanct and should be respected.

“The decision to choose leaders rests squarely on the shoulders of the people and that is what makes democracy unique. Therefore, contestants in any election must resist the temptation to manipulate the process or attempt to force themselves on the people.

“Leadership should be selfless service to the people and if that is the case, no responsible leader would want to force himself or herself on the people.

“To the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies, we appeal to you, to remain neutral and impartial. Ensure a level playing field for all political parties and candidates.

“Your roles are critical in maintaining the trust and confidence of the electorate. We need to see the neutrality of the respective institutions to promote our nascent democracy.”