As the November 16 governorship election approaches in Ondo State, the political atmosphere is charged, with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) exchanging strong accusations over alleged plans to disrupt the electoral process through violence.
The PDP Ondo State chapter has called on local security agencies to address what it describes as a planned scheme by the APC to instigate violence before and during the election. In a statement released on Wednesday, Mr. Ayo Fadaka, Special Adviser to the PDP Campaign Organisation, claimed that the APC has set up various centers around the state to shelter thugs who might incite chaos during the election period.
The PDP had said, “We take serious cognisance of actions the APC continues to take to criminally compromise the November 16 election. These sundry actions which began weeks ago are beginning to crystallise and given an imprimatur of officialdom with the announcement of a security committee under the chairmanship of the State Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Chief Tunji Adeleye.
“As earlier stated in a media interview by the chairman of the campaign organisation, Dr Eddy Olafeso, we will resist any attempt to drag the Amotekun Corps into the elections.
“We firmly place on record that Adeleye’s appointment is an undisguised attempt to make the Amotekun Corps play roguish roles like hooliganism and thuggery activities as we prepare for the election.
“This plan is an abuse of power and privileges and, if not quickly nipped in the bud, will be counterproductive with very deep consequences.
“We are also aware that barracks have been opened for thugs across the state and we will furnish the police and other security agencies with the addresses of hotels and facilities being used for this purpose.”
The opposition also alleged that the APC had a plan to cause a security scare in some local governments where “they will use their primary election template.”
It said, “Again, we are also aware of plans to pick some members of our party up using fake policemen; all these ludicrous plans are a clear invitation to crisis, and despite all, will not abate APC’s failure in the election,” he alleged.
In response, APC’s Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Steve Otaloro, denied these accusations, calling them fabrications from the PDP.
He said, “The PDP falsely claimed that Adeleye has been named chairman of the APC Security Committee. This is a blatant lie. The Amotekun Corps is a professional body dedicated to protecting the people, not engaging in politics. Moreover, we don’t even have a security committee in the Aiyedatiwa Campaign Council.
“The PDP’s allegations of violence, thuggery, and plans to cause security scares are also baseless. It’s the PDP that’s been crying wolf, trying to distract from their lack of preparation for the election.
“We urge the security agencies to investigate these claims and bring perpetrators to justice.”
“Our campaign is focused on issues, not misinformation. We’re committed to working for the people, not spreading false allegations. The PDP should join us in promoting a peaceful and issue-based campaign.
“We call on the good people of Ondo State to disregard the PDP’s baseless allegations and focus on the real issues that affect their lives.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration has delivered on its promises, and we are committed to continuing this progress,” Otaloro said.
