Amid the ongoing gubernatorial election in Ondo State today, November 16, 2024, incidents of violence and electoral malpractice have disrupted the process in several areas, notably in Idanre town. According to reports, sporadic gunfire erupted in Ofosu village, leading to panic among residents who fled to their homes to avoid the risk of stray bullets.
Eyewitnesses reported that unidentified assailants began firing shots early in the morning, allegedly in an attempt to enforce a sit-at-home order, discouraging voters from heading to polling stations. While there have been no confirmed casualties, the atmosphere in the community remains tense, with many residents staying indoors out of fear.
In a separate development, accusations of vote-buying have marred the election process. A video circulating on social media shows agents from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) allegedly distributing N3,000 to voters in exchange for support for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s re-election bid. The incident reportedly occurred at polling units in Okitipupa Local Government Area.
Kayode Babayomi, the African Action Congress (AAC) Chairman for Oyo State, revealed footage showing party agents handing out money to voters. The distribution of cash reportedly took place at Ward 3, Units 11 and 12 in Ilu Tuntun, a locality within the Okitipupa council area. Despite accusations, the agents denied involvement when confronted but quickly left the scene.
Agboola Ajayi, the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has also raised serious concerns about the integrity of the election. After experiencing delays due to malfunctioning Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices at his polling unit in Ese-Odo, Ajayi expressed doubts about the fairness of the process. He accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Barrister Olatoyin Babalola, of being biased.
Ajayi stated, “The system has been compromised. It is disheartening that INEC cannot conduct a credible election in just one state.” He further criticized the REC, suggesting deliberate attempts to influence the election outcome.
There have been multiple reports of vote buying across the state. Both APC and PDP agents were allegedly seen engaging in the distribution of marked papers, which voters could later redeem for cash after casting their ballots. This tactic was observed at polling unit 007, Ajagba Ward 2, in Irele Local Government Area, where voters were reportedly given signed slips to collect payments after voting.
As the election progresses, these incidents raise questions about the credibility of the voting process. Despite INEC’s assurances of a free and fair election, allegations of bias, violence, and corruption threaten to undermine the democratic process in Ondo State.
Observers are closely monitoring the situation as the results of the election could be significantly influenced by these reported irregularities.
