The All Progressives Congress (APC) has hailed its resounding victory in Ondo State’s governorship election, sparking debates and reactions across political lines. While the party celebrates its dominance, criticisms from opposition figures and endorsements from international observers frame a complex narrative around the election’s outcome and its potential ripple effects.
APC’s Triumph in Ondo
With 366,781 votes, APC’s candidate, Lucky Ayedatiwa, decisively defeated his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) counterpart, who garnered 117,845 votes. This landslide victory has bolstered APC’s confidence, with party chieftains projecting success in upcoming off-cycle elections.
Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a member of the APC National Campaign Stakeholders Engagement Committee, called the victory a testament to the party’s growing support.
“This victory signals the readiness of APC to claim more states currently under opposition control,” Oyintiloye stated.
Observers Endorse Election Integrity
The International Police Chaplain Sustainable Development and Law Enforcement Inc., USA (IPCSL), commended the peaceful and transparent nature of the Ondo election.
IPCSL spokesperson, Oscar David, affirmed that the results declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) accurately reflected votes at polling units.
“The election was credible, with minimal incidents and complaints,” David noted, urging candidates to resolve disputes through legal channels to maintain social peace.
Opposition Criticism and Osun Politics
The victory has drawn sharp criticism from Mallam Olawale Rasheed, an aide to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Rasheed accused APC National Chairman, Dr. Umar Ganduje, of harboring divisive political ambitions aimed at destabilizing the South-West region and undermining President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.
“Ganduje’s statements reveal a swollen ego and a lack of respect for democratic principles,” Rasheed claimed, adding that local factors, not external pressures, determine electoral outcomes.
He further pointed to Ganduje’s failure to secure the governorship of Kano State for APC as evidence of his inability to impose political dominance elsewhere.
Implications for Osun and Beyond
Ganduje’s alleged vow to reclaim Osun State in the 2026 elections has heightened tensions. Rasheed argued that Osun’s political dynamics are distinct from those in Ondo or Edo, dismissing Ganduje’s rhetoric as undemocratic.
“Electoral contests depend on local grievances and interests, not imposed force,” Rasheed emphasized.
Meanwhile, Oyintiloye maintained that APC’s performance in Ondo indicates a broader trend of electoral success, suggesting that states under opposition control should prepare for defeat.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy
As political actors jostle for dominance, observers continue to highlight the need for credible elections to sustain Nigeria’s democracy. IPCSL urged stakeholders to build on the democratic culture demonstrated in Ondo and work towards national peace and stability.
Outlook
The Ondo election’s outcome, coupled with reactions from political stakeholders, underscores the evolving dynamics of Nigeria’s electoral landscape. APC’s confidence, opposition criticisms, and observer endorsements collectively shape the narrative as the nation moves toward future elections.
