As the Ondo State governorship election approaches, set for November 16, the political atmosphere is tense with accusations of violence. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has publicly accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of planning to incite violence during the election. In a statement released by Ayo Fadaka, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the PDP Campaign Organisation, the party expressed its concerns about the APC’s alleged use of state resources to create security problems in the state.
The PDP has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene by advising Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to stop any plans that could lead to violence. They have also requested that the Inspector General of Police, alongside other key security leaders in the country, take immediate steps to prevent any security breaches before or during the election.
In their detailed statement, the PDP warned that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s actions could threaten the peace of Ondo State as election day draws near. The party believes the governor is working towards compromising the peaceful atmosphere in the state, and they have identified several strategic moves being made in that direction.
The PDP stressed the importance of urgent action, urging all security agencies to monitor developments closely. They warned that ignoring the potential for violence could lead to chaos, citing the old saying, “a stitch in time saves nine.”
However, the APC has strongly denied these allegations. Steve Otaloro, the APC’s Director of Media and Publicity, dismissed the PDP’s claims as baseless and aimed at distracting the governor. He emphasized that Governor Aiyedatiwa has always prioritized peace and security in the state, rejecting any notion that the governor is involved in plans for violence.
Otaloro insisted that the government’s security efforts are legitimate and focused on ensuring a safe election. He also criticized the PDP for resorting to scare tactics, urging them to engage in issue-based campaigns rather than spreading unfounded accusations. According to him, the people of Ondo State deserve a peaceful election free from violence and intimidation, and Governor Aiyedatiwa remains committed to that goal.