By Emmanuel Kwada

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially rejected the results of the recent gubernatorial election in Ondo State, where the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged victorious. The State Returning Officer, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, announced that APC candidate, Rotimi Ayedatiwa, garnered a total of 366,781 votes, defeating his nearest rival, Agboola Ajayi of the PDP, who secured 117,845 votes.

In a press conference held shortly after the announcement, PDP officials expressed their dissatisfaction with the election process, alleging widespread irregularities and a lack of transparency. The party claims that numerous incidents of voter suppression and manipulation were reported across various polling units during the elections.

The results announced do not reflect the will of the people of Ondo State

“The results announced do not reflect the will of the people of Ondo State,” declared Agboola Ajayi, who expressed confidence in his party’s grassroots support. “We will not rest until justice is served, and we urge our supporters to remain calm as we explore all legal avenues to challenge this outcome.”

In response, the APC celebrated the victory, emphasizing their commitment to continue on the path of development and progress for the state.

We will not rest until justice is served, and we urge our supporters to remain calm as we explore all legal avenues to challenge this outcome

Ayedatiwa thanked voters for their support and promised to uphold the aspirations of the Ondo populace. “This victory is for the people of Ondo State, and I pledge to work diligently to meet their needs and improve their lives,” he stated.

As tensions mount between the two parties, observers anticipate a protracted dispute over the election results, with the PDP aiming to challenge the legitimacy of the APC’s victory through formal channels. Meanwhile, political analysts suggest that the unfolding situation may deepen the political divide in the region as both parties prepare for the next steps in this contentious electoral saga.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to respond to the PDP’s claims but stated that they would review all allegations of misconduct during the election process.

As the situation develops, the people of Ondo State look on with bated breath, hopeful for a peaceful resolution to this latest chapter in their politic al journey.