Civil society observer groups have issued a resounding call for the cancellation of the Ondo State APC gubernatorial primary election held on April 20th, 2024.
The demand comes amidst a backdrop of widespread controversy and allegations of malpractice surrounding the election process.
In a detailed statement released Team leader,Comrade Eleojo Emem and Team Secretary, Oluwafemi Kayode of the Coalition of Civil Society Observer Groups, concerns were raised about various irregularities that marred the primary election.
These included the late arrival of the party’s election committee, limited awareness among party members regarding the procedures, and the absence of election materials and officials in several districts and local government areas.
The observer groups further highlighted allegations of bias and favoritism, particularly regarding the appointment of individuals closely affiliated with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as electoral and returning officers. Such actions, they argued, compromised the neutrality of the election process and raised serious doubts about its integrity.
In light of these troubling developments, the observer groups made several recommendations. Firstly, they urged the complete cancellation of the primary election and the immediate conduct of a fresh, transparent, and all-inclusive election. They also called for the dissolution of the Ondo State APC Governorship Primary Election Committee, citing gross incompetence and bias.
Additionally, the observer groups called for swift action from the national leadership of the APC, including the issuance of a directive to Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa to cease his representation as the party’s candidate pending the conduct of a credible primary election.
It concluded the statement emphasizing the importance of a fair and transparent primary election in ensuring the party’s success in the upcoming gubernatorial election scheduled for November 16th, 2024.
The Coalition of Civil Society Observer Groups highlighted several issues regarding the Ondo State APC Gubernatorial Primary Election held on April 20th, 2024: such as
“Division within the State Working Committee along interest lines.
Late arrival of the Party’s Election Committee and convening of stakeholders/aspirants meeting less than 24 hours before the election.
“Limited awareness among party members regarding the primary’s procedures and guidelines.
Unavailability of election materials and officials in various districts and local government areas, particularly in Ondo South and Ondo North. “Absence of the party’s voter register, hindering aspirants’ campaign strategies.
“ Lack of election materials and officials in all wards visited by the observer group despite an impressive turnout of party faithful.
Appointment of appointees, employees, and loyalists of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as Electoral and Returning Officers, compromising the neutrality of the election process.
“Free movement of thugs with dangerous weapons intimidating party faithful in areas considered their stronghold.”
As the controversy surrounding the Ondo APC primary election continues to unfold, the pressure mounts on the party leadership to address the concerns raised by the observer groups and restore confidence in the electoral process.
