The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vehemently rejected the results of the recent Ondo State governorship election, labeling it a sham and the worst poll ever conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This statement follows the announcement of Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner, a result that has sparked widespread controversy and allegations of electoral malpractice.
In a statement issued on Sunday, November 17, 2024, PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba condemned the election process, which he described as riddled with vote-buying, intimidation, and manipulation. He stated, "The November 16 governorship election falls short of all expectations and requirements for a free, fair, and credible election. We have witnessed the height of electoral swindle and deceit orchestrated by the APC."
The PDP claims that the election was characterized by pervasive vote-buying tactics employed by the ruling party to suppress genuine voter aspirations. Ologunagba emphasized that such practices threaten Nigeria's democracy and called for urgent action from both national and international stakeholders to address these issues.
"The PDP and indeed all lovers of democracy in Nigeria have just witnessed an unprecedented level of electoral malpractice," he continued. "We demand that serious measures be taken to stem this tide if Nigeria's democracy is to survive."
Despite these allegations, INEC has defended its conduct of the election, asserting that it was one of the best managed in recent history. The commission reported a high turnout and timely opening of polling units across Ondo State. However, Ologunagba dismissed these claims as mere attempts to legitimize what he termed a fraudulent process.
As part of its response, the PDP's National Working Committee plans to conduct a comprehensive review of the election outcome and will take necessary actions to uphold democratic principles in Nigeria.