Ahead of the November 16 Ondo governorship election, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of scheming to interfere with poll integrity.
The PDP claims that the APC, led by state chairman Ade Adetimehin, is attempting to place party members in key electoral roles to influence the vote.
Kennedy Peretei, the publicity secretary of Ondo PDP, issued a statement alleging that Adetimehin has directly submitted names of APC loyalists to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as potential presiding officers and assistant presiding officers.
Peretei pointed out that, despite not participating in mandatory INEC training, these individuals were still being positioned for election duties.
“The training of presiding officers and assistant presiding officers by INEC is essential for recruiting ad hoc staff,” Peretei asserted. “Unfortunately, Ade Adetimehin has personally submitted a list of two APC members per polling unit to INEC to serve in these roles, even though these persons did not attend the training.”
The APC, however, has categorically denied these accusations, dismissing them as baseless. APC spokesperson Alex Kalejaye emphasized that the party has no need to resort to such measures, citing a robust campaign strategy focused on engagement with Ondo citizens.
“It is not true. We have no reason to contemplate compromising the election,” Kalejaye stated. “We have worked hard for the people, implemented projects, and campaigned across all 18 local government areas. We are prepared.”
As the election draws near, both parties remain at odds over the conduct and credibility of the upcoming polls, raising concerns among voters in Ondo State.