Opposition party candidates in the upcoming Ondo State governorship election have expressed confidence in the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, affirming their trust in her ability to conduct a free, fair, and credible election.
The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the state also denounced any attempts to intimidate the REC on the basis of her gender.
During an INEC-organized stakeholders’ meeting with all 17 political parties and their candidates, the governorship candidates voiced their support for Mrs. Babalola. Leading the commendation was Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) candidate, Dr. Abbas Mimiko, who praised Babalola’s dedication to a transparent electoral process.
The ZLP candidate, considered a significant contender in the election, said, “Mrs. Babalola has shown great diligence and commitment to her duties. We in the ZLP are not calling for her redeployment, as we have full confidence in her impartiality and the integrity of her work.”
He urged all stakeholders to trust in INEC’s commitment to uphold democratic principles.
Other candidates who echoed Mimiko’s sentiments included Labour Party candidate Chief Olusola Ebiseni, NNPP candidate Olugbenga Edema, SDP candidate Bamidele Akingboye, and ADP candidate Myson Nejo. They encouraged INEC to maintain its efforts toward a free and fair election in Ondo State.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, stressed the importance of peace during the election. “Elections will come and go, but Ondo State will remain. It is our duty to preserve the peace we currently enjoy,” he stated, urging all candidates to prioritize the state’s long-term unity and prosperity.
Several candidates also promised to ensure that their supporters act within the law.
Franklin Oloniju, chairman of the Coalition of CSOs, expressed concern about political actors’ activities that have created tension in the state. He highlighted ongoing mobilization against the REC, describing it as an attempt to disrupt the peaceful political climate and possibly incite violence.
“We are particularly troubled by the efforts to mobilize against the REC. It appears this is a preemptive attempt to influence the election’s outcome and stir unrest,” Oloniju said, citing a recent call for her removal as part of a broader political agenda.
He added, “The CSOs in Ondo State firmly oppose any attempts to intimidate the REC based on her gender. This same REC presided over the Edo State Governorship election without incident, and it’s only now, with a female REC in Ondo, that these voices have risen.”
Oloniju also called on the police to take extra measures to protect the REC and ensure a peaceful election.
