The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has once again called on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Alhaji Mahmood Yakubu, to urgently replace the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mrs. Toyin Babalola. The PDP argues that her continued role in overseeing the upcoming gubernatorial election, slated for November 16, compromises the integrity of the process due to her alleged deep connections with the state and its political leaders.
In an open letter addressed to the INEC Chairman on October 18, 2024, and signed by PDP State Secretary, Oluseye Olujimi, the party raised concerns about Mrs. Babalola's neutrality. They assert that she has longstanding ties to the state, including residing in Akure for over three decades, and has reportedly held secret meetings with the incumbent governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the upcoming election.
The PDP pointed out that their call for Mrs. Babalola's removal is not new, having previously requested her replacement due to her alleged biases. This renewed plea follows recent comments by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who warned that the PDP would continue protesting until the INEC chief takes action.
“We have repeatedly expressed that Mrs. Babalola is unfit to supervise the November election. Her ties to the state, compounded by her close association with the ruling APC, have raised serious concerns about her ability to conduct a free and fair election,” the letter stated.
The party urged INEC to act swiftly, warning that failure to do so could spark unrest and cast further doubt on the commission's impartiality. Citing the recent controversy surrounding the Edo State election, the PDP argued that the removal of Mrs. Babalola would be a crucial step in restoring confidence in Nigeria's electoral system.
"The atmosphere in Ondo State is already tense, and INEC must demonstrate transparency and professionalism by appointing a non-partisan REC who has no personal ties to the state or its political actors,” the letter continued. "This is an opportunity for INEC to show Nigerians that it is serious about conducting credible elections."
The PDP concluded by urging the INEC Chairman to take immediate action to prevent a potential crisis and safeguard Nigeria’s fragile democracy.
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