The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has condemned the just concluded Ondo State governorship election, labeling it as “far from credible” and alleging widespread malpractices.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Comrade Mark Adebayo, the coalition’s spokesperson, criticized the election process, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of engaging in rampant vote-buying.
Adebayo also expressed concerns about the role of security agencies, alleging their bias and failure to address the issue of electoral malpractice.
He described the situation as “an eyesore,” pointing out that these actions undermined the credibility of the election.
Adebayo further accused the APC of manipulating the political system to consolidate power ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He claimed that the party, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was pushing a dangerous agenda aimed at turning Nigeria into a one-party state.
According to him, this strategy was evident in the recent elections, where the APC allegedly used state machinery to secure its victory.
“The APC has failed on all fronts of governance. From rising insecurity and inflation to unprecedented levels of youth unemployment, the party has brought the country to its knees,” Adebayo stated.
He continued to lambast the ruling party, accusing it of pushing policies that had exacerbated poverty, hunger, and economic decline, all while ignoring the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.
Referring to the situation in Ondo State, Adebayo drew parallels with the 2020 Edo State election, claiming that similar tactics of state-sponsored manipulation were used to force an outcome.
He argued that such actions were not democratic but rather part of an ongoing effort by “anti-democratic forces” to undermine the nation’s democracy.
The CUPP vowed to remain vigilant and committed to protecting Nigeria’s democratic process.
“We will continue to fight against forces that seek to dismantle our democracy and oppress the Nigerian people. All efforts will be made to prevent the country from sliding into authoritarianism,” Adebayo concluded.
The opposition coalition’s statement has sparked further debate over the integrity of the electoral process in Ondo, with calls for reforms to safeguard the future of democracy in Nigeria.
