Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has described the ongoing by-election in the Ondo South Senatorial District as peaceful and orderly. Expressing satisfaction with the high voter turnout across the district's six local government areas, the governor commended the electoral process.
By-election to fill vacant Senate seat
The by-election is being conducted to fill the vacancy left by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu as Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations. Voting is taking place in Ilaje, Ese-Odo, Okitipupa, Irele, Odigbo, and Ileoluji/Okeigbo local council areas.
Aiyedatiwa votes, praises mobilization
Speaking to journalists after casting his vote at Unit 05, Ward 4, Obenla community in Ilaje Local Council Area, Aiyedatiwa stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Prof. Dayo Faduyile, had carried out extensive mobilization, contributing to the large turnout. He noted that party structures across the district continue to drive voter engagement.
“We want to encourage everyone to come out and vote. Ondo State is safe, and we have a peaceful election. God has been helping us; our security agencies are up and doing. Ondo State is one of the safest and most peaceful states in Nigeria,” he said.
“So, we expect a turnout of our people, even though it is a by-election. A lot of work has been done by our candidate, Professor Dayo Faduyile, and the environment is still very active politically after the primary election,” the governor added.
Turnout could exceed 100,000
Aiyedatiwa expressed optimism that voter turnout could surpass 100,000, a remarkable figure for a by-election, though typically lower than general elections. “Ordinarily, if it is like a general election, definitely the number would be more. We hope that at the end of voting, we will see how it goes,” he stated.
Security and vigilance urged
The governor reassured residents of the state's security, describing Ondo as one of the safest states in Nigeria. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, unfamiliar persons, or unusual movements within their communities.
“Our security is a function of every one of us. It is not only the government or the security agencies. As members of society, citizens’ participation is very important, especially in the area of security,” he said.
“I want to encourage our people not to be afraid to go about their businesses, but when they notice anything new or strange, they should let the appropriate authorities know,” the governor added.
Candidates in the race
Faduyile, a former president of the Nigerian Medical Association, is contesting against candidates from the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), Action People’s Party (APP), and Boot Party (BP), among others.
