The Traffic

Ondo Decides: Tinubu Urges Peaceful Poll as Voters Hit the Ballot Amid Tension
By Achimi Muktar

In a pivotal moment for Ondo State, 1,793,914 registered voters head to the polls today to elect their next governor amid heightened security and national scrutiny. President Bola Tinubu has called for a peaceful and credible election, urging all stakeholders to prioritize democratic principles and the will of the people.

Speaking through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu emphasized the importance of decorum and maturity, urging Ondo residents to exercise their rights without fear or intimidation. He also lauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for ensuring timely distribution of sensitive electoral materials and commended security agencies for their readiness to safeguard the process.

“As the people of Ondo State prepare to choose their leader, it is crucial that we respect their right to decide their future. The privilege to govern comes from the people, and this must be honored by all candidates and political parties,” Tinubu stated.

Security at Full Alert
A heavy security presence blankets the state, with 22,239 police officers joined by personnel from customs, immigration, the NSCDC, and other agencies to ensure a hitch-free process. Deputy Inspector General of Police, Abiodun Alabi, vowed that electoral offenders would face prosecution, pledging to provide a level playing field for all political parties.

Despite tight measures, pre-election violence erupted in Idanre Local Government Area, leaving seven PDP members hospitalized following an attack by suspected thugs. DIG Alabi assured voters that contingency plans are in place to handle any crises during or after the election.

A restriction on vehicular movement from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. today underscores the gravity of the situation, with exemptions granted only to essential services like ambulances and accredited media personnel.

INEC’s Surprise Decision
In a dramatic twist, INEC has restored Olorunfemi Ayodele Festus as the Labour Party candidate following a Court of Appeal judgment overturning an earlier Federal High Court decision in favor of Olusola Ebiseni. This ruling has further stirred political tensions, with INEC urging all parties to respect the rule of law.

Why Voter Turnout May Lag
Despite over 85% of registered voters collecting their PVCs, the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) predicts potential voter apathy. According to CDD Chairman Prof. Adele Jinadu Garuba, the dominance of candidates from the same geopolitical zone—Ondo South—could lead to lower turnout in Ondo North and Central zones.

Additionally, fears of violence in hotspots like Akure South, Owo, and Idanre may deter participation. “Voter apathy is dangerous for democracy. It leads to a lack of accountability and increased disillusionment,” Garuba warned, urging all parties to refrain from weaponizing information and fueling division.

Akeredolu Family Disowns SDP Endorsement
Adding to the political drama, the family of the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has distanced itself from an endorsement of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, Mr. Bamidele Akingboye, by Olufemi Akeredolu, a younger brother of the former governor.

Professor Oluwole Akeredolu, the family head, clarified in a statement: “The Akeredolu family has not declared support for any candidate. Olufemi’s association with the SDP is personal and does not represent the family’s stance.”

As Ondo voters cast their ballots today, all eyes are on the state to uphold democratic values and ensure a credible process that reflects the people’s will. With high stakes, heightened security, and a charged political atmosphere, the outcome will shape Ondo’s future and signal Nigeria’s democratic resilience.