By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has withdrawn from the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, sparking outrage among its candidates and raising questions about the electoral process.
The party’s leadership cited concerns over the credibility, transparency, and impartiality of the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) as the reason for the last-minute decision.
In a statement signed by the party’s Director of Media and Publicity, Leye Igbagbo, the PDP accused ODIEC of failing the integrity test and adopting double standards, casting serious doubts on its ability to conduct a free, fair, and credible election.
The statement read: “As a responsible political party committed to democracy and the rule of law, we cannot, in good conscience, confer legitimacy on this compromised process by participating in the election.
This decision is a product of extensive consultations with party leaders, stakeholders, and our National Secretariat.”
The party had fielded 15 chairmanship and 131 councillorship candidates for the elections.
However, its withdrawal has left candidates frustrated and disillusioned.
Speaking on behalf of the aggrieved candidates, Mr Tuyi Adekambi, PDP’s chairmanship candidate for Akure South, described the withdrawal as a betrayal.
“For the party to back out just 72 hours before the election is a backstab and a disservice to democracy. We had nearly 85% support from the electorate and a strong chance of winning. The party leadership has failed us and the people of Akure South,” he lamented.
Adekambi assured supporters that the candidates would communicate their next steps soon while urging them to remain steadfast.
Despite the PDP’s withdrawal, ODIEC has maintained that the election will proceed as planned.
Dr Joseph Aremo, the ODIEC chairman, confirmed that 12 political parties will still participate in the polls.
“The withdrawal of one party out of 13 will not undermine the electoral process. The PDP has been part of this process from screening candidates to submitting agents and attending our workshops. We remain committed to conducting a credible, free, and fair election,” Aremo stated.
In preparation for the election, the Ondo State Police Command has announced restrictions on vehicular and motorcycle movements across the state from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday.
The command’s spokesperson, Funmi Odunlami, explained that the measure is aimed at ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
“Adequate security has been emplaced to safeguard both human and material resources. We urge voters to abide by the rules and warn miscreants to stay clear as all machinery is in place to prevent any disruption,” Odunlami warned.
The PDP’s withdrawal adds a layer of controversy to the election, with critics questioning the integrity of the process and supporters lamenting the missed opportunity to challenge the ruling party.
As the polls approach, the spotlight remains on ODIEC’s ability to deliver a credible outcome and maintain public confidence in the state’s democratic processes.
