The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the conduct of the Ondo State governorship election held on Saturday, describing it as the worst ever organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The party criticized the process, stating that it fell significantly short of the standards required for a free, fair, and credible election.
In a statement released by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP decried the numerous irregularities that allegedly marred the election.
He noted that the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) would conduct a comprehensive review of the election process and its outcome, with a view to taking decisive action to protect Nigeria’s democracy.
“The National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP will undertake a detailed review of the election and its outcome,” Ologunagba said. “We will not hesitate to take the appropriate action in defence of our democracy and to ensure that the will of the people prevails.”
The party highlighted various lapses and alleged malpractices during the election, accusing INEC of failing to meet the expectations of Nigerians.
According to the PDP, the process was riddled with incidents of voter suppression, irregularities in the deployment of election materials, and compromises that undermined the credibility of the outcome.
“This election in Ondo State fell short of all expectations and requirements for a free, fair, and credible election,” Ologunagba stated.
“It is deeply concerning that the electoral umpire, which is expected to be impartial and professional, presided over such a flawed process. If these issues are not addressed, the survival of Nigeria’s democracy could be at stake.”
The PDP called for urgent action to rectify the issues witnessed in the election, urging stakeholders and the international community to remain vigilant in safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic values.
The party emphasized the need for reforms in the electoral process to prevent a recurrence of the lapses observed during the Ondo election.
“The future of our democracy depends on the credibility of our electoral processes,” the statement added.
“We demand that serious action be taken to stem the tide of electoral misconduct. Only by doing so can we ensure that Nigeria’s democracy endures and thrives.”
As the PDP awaits the outcome of its internal review, the party has reassured its members and supporters that it remains committed to defending the principles of democracy and the sanctity of the ballot box.
