The re-election of Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has ignited a fierce dispute, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) alleging widespread electoral fraud and rejecting the poll results.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), however, has stood by its declaration of Aiyedatiwa as the winner, securing 366,781 votes against the PDP’s Agboola Ajayi, who managed 117,845. INEC described the election as free, fair, and credible, pointing to high operational efficiency and extensive stakeholder engagement.
Criticism has poured in from opposition parties and candidates, citing alleged vote-buying, intimidation, and manipulation. PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, called the election “a sham,” while other contenders decried systemic issues that undermined the process.
Despite the controversies, Aiyedatiwa dismissed claims of malpractice, insisting his victory reflected the will of Ondo’s people. President Bola Tinubu and APC leaders hailed the election as a testament to democracy and effective governance.
While investigations into allegations of vote-buying are ongoing, analysts say the election underscores persistent challenges in Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
