Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State have commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for ensuring a peaceful atmosphere during the state’s governorship election.
Speaking in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday after casting their votes, the APC chieftains praised the punctuality and dedication of INEC’s ad-hoc staff and security personnel, as well as the high voter turnout at polling units.
They particularly highlighted the impressive participation of young people, who came out in large numbers to exercise their civic duties.
The leaders noted that the youth in Ondo State appear to have gained a greater appreciation for the importance of their involvement in the electoral process.
Amid the voting, the APC leaders expressed optimism that the results would favor their candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Princess Oladunni Odu, a former Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and an APC gubernatorial aspirant, praised INEC and security agencies for ensuring a peaceful election.
Voting at Unit 1, Ward 2, Idepe-Okitipupa, Odu acknowledged the efforts of INEC staff and law enforcement, including the Nigeria Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), for their punctuality and commitment.
“This election has been peaceful. We must give credit to INEC and the security agencies for their professionalism,” Odu said.
“Although the turnout seems lower than in previous elections, I believe more voters will come out later in the day.”
Prof. Adedayo Faduyile, former Special Adviser on Health to the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, also lauded the conduct of the election, calling it peaceful and well-organized. Faduyile, who voted at Unit 5, Ward 6, Ikoya Igbisin-Oloto in Okitipupa, was particularly impressed by the involvement of young voters.
“The election was peaceful, and although the turnout was initially low, I’m encouraged by the large number of youths participating,” Faduyile said.
“It seems they now understand the power of their votes in shaping good governance.”
State lawmaker, Mr. Chris Aiyebusiwa, representing Okitipupa Constituency 1 at the Ondo State House of Assembly, who cast his vote at Unit 11, Ward 1, Ilutitun, Okitipupa LGA, echoed similar sentiments.
He commended INEC and security forces for conducting a credible election, and praised the orderly conduct of voters.
Aiyebusiwa expressed confidence that the APC would secure a victory once the votes were sorted and collated.
