The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the Ondo State Governorship Election, Mr. Agboola Ajayi, has raised serious concerns about the conduct of the election.
Ajayi, a former deputy governor of the state, expressed dissatisfaction with the process after casting his vote at Unit 4, Ward 2 Idumado in Kiribo, Ese-Odo Local Government Area.
He cast his ballot at 10:45 am but criticized the delay and inefficiencies he experienced during the process.
“The System is Compromised,” Says Ajayi
Ajayi stated that it took over 10 minutes for the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) to capture him, an experience he described as unacceptable.
Speaking to journalists shortly after voting, Ajayi did not mince words.
“The system is not perfect, and there are lots of complaints,” he said.
He went on to accuse the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of deliberate failings.
“If INEC cannot successfully organize an election in just one state, then you must know that we are running into anarchy,” he declared.
Ajayi alleged that the election process was being manipulated and pointed fingers at the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Barrister Oluwatoyin Babalola.
“We don’t trust Barr. Oluwatoyin Babalola (REC). This woman cannot be fair,” he said.
Accusations of Vote Buying and System Failures
Ajayi also raised concerns about reports of vote buying and widespread issues with the BVAS.
“People are complaining of vote buying and BVAS problems. It is a very shameful exercise,” he lamented.
He criticized INEC’s handling of the election, suggesting that the commission had failed in its responsibilities.
“The system is compromised, and we have had series of calls made by everybody,” he stated.
Ajayi’s dissatisfaction extended beyond the REC to the leadership of INEC as a whole.
Calls for INEC Chairman’s Resignation
The PDP candidate called for the resignation of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the INEC chairman.
“This election is a reflection of INEC’s incompetence. Prof. Mahmood Yakubu should step down if he cannot conduct free and fair elections,” Ajayi asserted.
His comments highlight growing concerns among political stakeholders about the credibility of electoral processes in Nigeria.
Background on the Election
The Ondo State Governorship Election is seen as a critical test of INEC’s readiness to conduct credible elections ahead of future polls in the country.
The election, which took place on November 16, 2024, has been marked by reports of technical challenges, allegations of voter suppression, and accusations of malpractice.
The BVAS, introduced to improve election transparency and efficiency, has faced significant criticism for technical glitches and delays.
Ajayi’s outburst reflects broader frustrations with the commission’s performance.
INEC Under Fire
This is not the first time INEC has come under scrutiny for its handling of elections.
The commission has faced repeated accusations of inefficiency, bias, and failure to uphold electoral standards.
Despite assurances of improved technology and processes, INEC’s performance in the Ondo election has left many disappointed.
Ajayi’s claims of vote buying add to longstanding concerns about the influence of money in Nigerian elections.
