Ondo By-Election: Aiyedatiwa Predicts Strong Voter Turnout, Urges Residents to Remain Vigilant

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has expressed optimism that voters will turn out in significant numbers for the Ondo South Senatorial District by-election, assuring residents that adequate security measures have been put in place to guarantee a peaceful electoral process.

The governor spoke with journalists on Saturday after casting his vote at Polling Unit 05 Ugbo Ward 4, in Obenla Community, Ilaje Local Government Area.

The by-election is being conducted to fill the Senate seat vacated by former Senator Jimoh Ibrahim following his appointment as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

Aiyedatiwa said the level of political engagement witnessed across the district in recent weeks had reinforced his confidence that eligible voters would participate actively in the exercise despite it being a by-election.

According to him, the enthusiasm displayed during the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election held about three weeks ago reflects the growing interest of residents in the contest.

“We expect a good turnout of the people even though it is a by-election. If you look at the candidate of our party, Professor Dayo Faduyile, a former President of the Nigerian Medical Association, he is well known and widely accepted,” the governor said.

He noted that the APC primary attracted substantial participation from party members and supporters, creating a political atmosphere that has remained vibrant across the district.

“The primary election conducted three weeks ago attracted a large number of participants who came out to choose the party’s candidate and the entire political environment has remained active. We expect people to come out in the same manner they did during the primary election,” he added.

The governor explained that the election was taking place across the six local government areas that make up the Ondo South Senatorial District, namely Ilaje, Ese-Odo, Okitipupa, Irele, Odigbo and Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo.

He expressed confidence that political structures, party supporters and community stakeholders would mobilise voters to participate in the electoral process.

While projecting a healthy turnout, Aiyedatiwa acknowledged that voter participation in by-elections is traditionally lower than during general elections.

“We expect to get a very good number, though perhaps less than 100,000 because it is a by-election. If it were a general election, the figure would certainly be much higher,” he said.

The governor also reassured residents of their safety, describing Ondo as one of the most peaceful states in the country and commending security agencies for maintaining a visible presence across the district.

“I want to encourage everyone to come out and vote. Ondo State is safe and we are having a peaceful election,” he stated.

“God has been helping us, and our security agencies are fully on the ground and doing their jobs. Ondo is one of the safest and most peaceful states in Nigeria.”

He, however, urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to relevant authorities.

“I want to tell our people not to be afraid. However, if you see something, say something. Everyone should remain vigilant,” Aiyedatiwa added.

The by-election is being closely monitored by electoral officials, security agencies and political stakeholders, with the outcome expected to determine who will represent Ondo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly.