The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner of the 2024 Ondo State governorship election.
Aiyedatiwa emerged victorious after a decisive landslide, defeating his closest rivals in an election marked by low voter turnout and allegations of vote-buying.
INEC’s Returning Officer, Professor Olayemi Akinwunmi, made the announcement at the commission’s state collation center in Alagbaka, Akure, on Sunday afternoon.
The results showed Aiyedatiwa secured 366,781 votes, far ahead of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Agboola Ajayi, who garnered 117,845 votes.
The African Democratic Party (ADP) candidate, Adeyemi Nejo, finished a distant third with 4,138 votes.
“All requirements of the law have been satisfied,” Akinwunmi declared. “Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of the APC is hereby declared the winner and returned elected.”
The announcement, made at exactly 2:29 pm, brought jubilation among APC supporters across the state.
Victory Across All 18 Local Governments
Governor Aiyedatiwa achieved a rare political feat by winning in all 18 local government areas of Ondo State.
The election solidified his popularity and control, particularly in his home region of Ilaje Local Government Area in the southern senatorial district.
Political analysts have described the victory as a testament to the APC’s grassroots strength in Ondo.
Despite the widespread vote-buying claims, the election remained largely peaceful.
Low Voter Turnout and Controversies
Observers noted that voter turnout was disappointingly low.
The late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s death in 2023 and the resulting political realignment may have contributed to voter apathy.
“There was a clear lack of enthusiasm among voters,” said a local election observer. “Many seemed disillusioned, while others simply stayed away.”
Reports also emerged of vote-buying incidents, a practice that has marred Nigeria’s electoral processes for years.
INEC has not commented on these allegations but reiterated its commitment to credible elections.
Aiyedatiwa’s Political Journey
Lucky Aiyedatiwa succeeded his late predecessor, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, in December 2023 after serving as his deputy.
Akeredolu, who passed away while in office, was a formidable figure in Ondo politics, and Aiyedatiwa stepped into his shoes amid high expectations.
The APC governor’s victory now grants him a fresh four-year mandate to lead the Sunshine State.
Speaking shortly after his declaration, Aiyedatiwa promised to build on Akeredolu’s legacy.
“My administration will focus on delivering impactful projects and improving the lives of Ondo residents,” he said.
He also thanked voters for their overwhelming support, pledging inclusivity and transparency in governance.
Opposition Parties Falter
The PDP’s Agboola Ajayi suffered a crushing defeat, receiving less than one-third of Aiyedatiwa’s votes.
The Labour Party and the Zenith Labour Party candidates fared even worse, failing to make significant impacts.
Political commentators have linked the opposition’s poor performance to internal divisions and weak campaign strategies.
“It’s clear the APC had the upper hand from the start,” noted a political analyst. “The opposition failed to present a united front.”
Celebration Amid Challenges
Supporters of Aiyedatiwa flooded the streets of Akure and other major towns, celebrating the governor’s victory.
The APC candidate’s triumph signals continuity in Ondo’s political landscape but also raises questions about the state’s future development.
Governor Aiyedatiwa faces significant challenges, including addressing the economic difficulties that have plagued Ondo in recent years.
With his victory secured, all eyes are now on his administration to deliver on its promises.
“Ondo Has Spoken” – Aiyedatiwa Declares
In his victory speech, Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to the people of Ondo State.
“Ondo has spoken,” he declared with visible emotion. “Your trust in me is a responsibility I do not take lightly.”
He also extended an olive branch to his opponents, urging them to join him in moving the state forward.
“There is no winner or loser today,” he said. “Together, we must work to build a better Ondo State for future generations.”
