Kehinde Fajobi
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has dismissed allegations by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) that it deployed thugs to Ofosun in Idanre Local Government Area to disrupt the ongoing governorship election.
In a statement on Saturday, the APC Publicity Secretary, Mr Steve Otaloro, refuted the claims, insisting that voting in the area was proceeding without incident.
Otaloro said, “I’m in the APC situation room right now, and the information we’ve received indicates there is nothing like that.
“The person making these claims is the deputy governorship candidate of Agboola Ajayi of the PDP. If you recall, the PDP held a press conference two days ago, alleging violence by APC.
“But I ask, was he on the ground in those places? He should have done due diligence before making such accusations.”
He criticised the PDP’s allegations, calling them an attempt to create unnecessary tension.
“Voting is going on in an orderly manner. If they have issues, they should investigate properly instead of making baseless accusations. I can assure you that no member of our party is involved in any violence. Everyone has become an electorate today, not a party member,” he added.
Otaloro also questioned the plausibility of the allegations. “How would our members infiltrate these farm settlements and remote areas? It is simply not true. Often, such accusations arise when plans are thwarted, and that’s likely what happened here,” he said.
He further emphasised APC’s commitment to a peaceful election.
“Since morning, this election has been peaceful, and we urge everyone to allow it to end that way. As a party, we are committed to peace and have instructed our members to ensure tranquillity throughout this election process,” Otaloro concluded.