Ondo poll: APC, PDP trade words over alleged planned violence

Flags of the All Progressives Congress and Peoples Democratic Party

As the Ondo State governorship election slated for November 16 draws near the state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has accused the All Progressives Congress of planning to cause violence during the election in the state.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Special Adviser (Media and Publicity) to the PDP Campaign Organisation, Ayo Fadaka, and made available to our correspondent on Thursday.

The party called on President Bola Tinubu to caution Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to halt using the state resources to cause security breaches in the state ahead of the poll.

It also appealed to the Inspector General of Police and other heads of security in the country to be proactive against the alleged planned use of violence before and during the forthcoming poll in the state by the ruling party.

The statement read, “Due cognisance has been accorded to deft moves by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to compromise the peace and tranquillity of our dear state as we inch towards the November 16th gubernatorial election in Ondo State. Towards accomplishing these dastardly goals, some strategic steps have been taken, and we have decoded them.

“We call on the Inspector General of Police, Director General of Department of State Security, and Heads of other Security Agencies to take more interest in developments geared at causing security breaches in Ondo State as we move towards the election, a stitch in time, they say saves nine.

However, the state APC Director, Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro,  said the PDP’s allegation against the party and the governor was untrue and baseless. He also stated that the allegation was meant to distract the governor.

The APC spokesman said, ” The governor’s commitment to peace and security in Ondo State is unwavering, and we reject any insinuation that he plans to cause a security breach. Every action taken by the government on security are legitimate effort to enhance security in the state, and we will not be swayed by the PDP’s mischievous interpretation.

“We also reject the PDP’s attempt to link Governor Aiyedatiwa to any act of violence or intimidation. His leadership has been marked by inclusivity, tolerance, and respect for all citizens.

“We urge the PDP to focus on issue-based campaigning rather than resorting to unfounded allegations and scaremongering. The people of Ondo State deserve better. We assure the public that Governor Aiyedatiwa remains committed to delivering on his campaign promises and ensuring a peaceful and fair election on November 16th.”