'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the incumbent governor of Ondo State, has been re-elected in a decisive victory that cements his position as the leader of the Sunshine State for another four years. The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate garnered 366,781 votes, overwhelmingly defeating his closest opponent, Ajayi Agboola of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who secured 117,845 votes.
The election results were officially announced on Sunday by the Returning Officer, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja. Speaking at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) collation center in Akure, Prof. Akinwumi declared Aiyedatiwa the winner, stating, “Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of the APC, having satisfied the requirements of the law, is hereby declared the winner and returned elected.”
The APC candidate dominated the polls, winning in all 18 local government areas of the state, solidifying his mandate and extending his stay at the Government House in Alagbaka, Akure.
Aiyedatiwa’s journey to power
Aiyedatiwa’s political journey is marked by a combination of tragedy and opportunity. He first ascended to the governorship on December 27, 2023, following the death of his predecessor, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, who succumbed to a protracted illness. Prior to his death, Akeredolu had transferred power to Aiyedatiwa, then serving as his deputy.
After completing the late governor’s tenure, Aiyedatiwa secured the APC ticket for the 2024 governorship election, fending off competition from 17 other candidates, including Agboola, who had also served as Akeredolu’s deputy during his first term.
Campaign and election day
Aiyedatiwa’s campaign focused on economic improvement and enhanced welfare for state workers. A significant highlight of his tenure was the introduction of a minimum wage of ₦73,000—higher than the federal government’s recommended ₦70,000—a policy he showcased as proof of his commitment to the state’s welfare.
Voting on election day commenced early and was largely peaceful, with INEC officials arriving on time at most polling units. Aiyedatiwa expressed confidence after casting his vote, attributing his anticipated victory to his achievements over the past 10 months in office.
“I believe I’m in an advantaged position to win this election because of the work that I have done in the last 10 months since I assumed office as the governor of the state,” Aiyedatiwa said.
Opposition cries foul
Despite the smooth conduct of the election, the PDP candidate, Ajayi Agboola, accused INEC of compromising the process. He alleged instances of vote-buying and malfunctioning of the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).
“The system is compromised,” Agboola claimed. “People are complaining about vote buying, and the BVAS is not working. It is a very shameful exercise.”
Agboola called for the resignation of INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, describing the process as embarrassing and untrustworthy.
Observers highlight vote-buying
Election observers noted widespread vote-buying, which they said occurred openly despite the presence of security personnel.
“The Situation Room notes the trend of persistent vote trading during elections in Nigeria,” the coalition stated. “It is worrying that, despite the high presence of security personnel at polling units, vote trading went on openly and unchecked during voting hours.”
A mandate for progress
As Aiyedatiwa prepares for another term, expectations are high for the governor to deliver on his promises of economic growth and improved welfare. The landslide victory has been seen as an endorsement of his leadership, with hopes that his administration will continue to drive progress across Ondo State.
