INEC declares Akeredolu winner

By Samuel Oamen

Ondo Governor Rotimi Akeredolu has been declared winner of the October 10, 2020 governorship election.

INEC Returning Officer, Prof Idowu Olayinka, declared the candidate of the All Progressives Congress(APC) winner with 292,830.

Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Eyitayo Jegede polled 195,791 while Agboola Ajayi of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) scored 69,127 votes.

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By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

Total votes for parties

APC: 292,830

PDP: 195,791

ZLP: 69,127

Total Accredited Votes: 595,213

Rejected Votes: 18,448

Total Valid Votes: 572,756

Total Votes Cast: 591,193

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Result announcement reporting – By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

Ilaje LGA: 

APC: 26,657

PDP: 11,128

ZLP: 4, 405

There are 12 registration areas.

Registered: 132,281

Accredited: 44,624

Valid: 42,814

Rejected: 1,316

Total Cast: 44,130

We have records of cancelled votes in three unit totaling 1,479.

Ese Odo LGA:

APC: 13,383

PDP: 4,680

ZLP: 4,760

There are 10 registration areas.

Registered: 70,011

Accredited: 24,270

Valid: 23,300

Rejected: 868

Total Cast: 24,168

There were no cancellation. Election was generally peaceful,no challenges. 

 

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Situation report By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

The two remaining LGAs have arrived. Results and officials were airlifted from the riverine by the police in order to forestall any evenuality and also save time.

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Situation report By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

Exhausted cameramen taking naps as results of two riverine LGAs – Ese Odo and Ilaje are awaited. Reports say that collation exercises at the LGAs have been concluded and the result may arrive at the State Collation Centre within an hour. 

 

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Result announcement reporting – By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

Odigbo LGA: 

APC: 23,571

PDP: 9,485

ZLP: 6,540

There are 11 registration areas

Registration: 134, 674

Accredited: 43, 250

Valid: 41, 072

Rejected: 1,922

Total cast: 42,994

We have three cancellations totaling 1007. Ajana village polling booth 008 was cancelled as a result of violence caused by snatching and smashing of the ballot box.

In Ward 6, unit 002 use of a card reader was abandoned and it resorted to violence. Thirdly, Ward 6, unit 003 use of card reader was abandoned also. 

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Situation report By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

Collation Officer Ondo West back to give an accurate reports on cancellation in polling units. 

 

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Situation report By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

Five minutes recess announced as at this time.

After the five minutes recess, the Ondo West Collation Officer will clear up irregularities that arose from the cancellation of some polling units. Party agents requested to have the number of voters in each of the canceled polling units. 

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Result announcement reporting – By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

Ondo West: 

Prof. Ademola Ibitoye is Collation Officer

APC: 15,977

PDP: 10,627

ZLP: 10,159

There are 12 registration areas.

 Registered: 171,104

Accredited: 39,890

Valid: 38,177

Rejected: 1,657

Total cast: 39,834

There is a cancellation in five wards comprising eight polling units which are:

Ward one, unit 13 over voting

Ward two, unit 10 refusal to use the smart card which they said it was a waste of time.

In Ward two, unit 11 same thing happened.

Ward five, unit three over voting

Ward five, unit six they bought out voting bag, emptied, and burnt it. 

In Ward seven, unit 27, there was over-voting.

Ward 12, unit 04, while voting was ongoing the card reader malfunctioned and the PO decided to make arrangements for another smart card reader but voters said they want to conclude by voting without the smart card reader. They did not allow the PO to look for one.

In polling unit 12, there was over-voting.

No case of PWD. 

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Result announcement reporting – By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

Okitipupa LGA:

Prof Isaac Oluwajoba is Collation Officer

APC: 19,266

PDP: 10,367

ZLP: 10,120

There are 13 registration areas

Registered: 108,404

Accredited: 42,456

Valid; 40,809

Rejected: 1,539

Total cast: 42,348

Three polling units were cancelled totaling 1,413 votes.

The units are 02, Ejere Ward, unit three at Ibatapo 1 and Ijudo unit five.

In one of the units, hoodlums snatched form EC8 and smartcard readers after voting.

The only result was one presented by a party agent. The other two were as a result of over-voting. There were no PWDs. 

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Result announcement reporting – By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

OSE LGA: 

APC: 15,122

PDP: 8,421

ZLP: 1,083

There are 12 registration areas.

Registered: 69,087

Accredited: 26,065

Valid: 25,219

Rejected: 748

Total cast: 25,967

There were no cancelled polling units and no PWD voters. 

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Situation Report – By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

Collation of results are still ongoing in two riverine LGAs’ Ilaje and Ose-Odo. This means that those LGAs’ results may not be ready until afternoon. Also, three LGAs’ results have come in and awaiting arrival of the Ondo State Collation officials to be taken. 

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9:48am

 

Media men and few party agents awaits the conitnuation of Ondo State collation exercise. 

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Results for all the 13 wards in Okitipupa LGA as announced by the LG returning officer, Professor Isaac Abere – Ijo

Ward 1, Ayeka/Igbotako = APC – 1531 PDP – 704 ZLP – 1215

Ward 2, Erinje, = APC – 1376 PDP – 770 ZLP – 756

Ward 3, Igbotako I = APC – 1317 PDP – 471 ZLP – 553

Ward 4, Igbotako II = APC – 1469 PDP – 568 ZLP – 395

Ward 5, Ijuodo/Erekiti = APC – 1569 PDP – 506 ZLP – 290

Ward 6, Ikoya/Oloto = APC – 1534 PDP – 776 ZLP – 555

Ward 7, Ilutitun I = APC – 1189 PDP – 849 ZLP – 231

Ward 8, Ilutitun II = APC – 1106 PDP – 1020 ZLP – 322

Ward 9, Ilutitun III = APC – 1408 PDP – 1222 ZLP – 410

Ward 10, Ode Aye I = APC – 1851 PDP – 990 ZLP – 988

Ward 11, Ode Aye II = APC – 1154 PDP – 864 ZLP – 629

Ward 12, Okitipupa I = APC – 1634 PDP – 739 ZLP – 1866

Ward 13, Okitipupa II = APC – 2128 PDP – 888 ZLP – 1910

TOTAL :
APC – 19,266
PDP – 10,367
ZLP – 10,120

Result announcement reporting – By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

2:35am: Prof. Idowu Olayinka called for a recess, collation is expected to resume back by 9:00am to take the remaining six LGAs. Out of 12 LGAs announced, APC has clinched 9 leaving three for PDP.

Akure South LGA:

Prof. Olufemi Adesina is Collation Officer.

APC: 17,277

PDP: 47,627

ZLP: 2,236

Registered: 286,641. Accredited: 69,961. Valid: 68,428. Rejected: 1,405. Total Cast: 69,833.

There were cases of cancelled polling units and this occurred in Osisi quarters Ward four and Ijomu/Oke Ijebu ward four.

There were cases of over voting in Ward four, unit 8. 303 accredited while total votes cast was 306 an excess of four. In Ward four, unit 010, total votes cast exceeded number on card reader.

No report on violence.

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Akoko South East LGA:

APC: 9,419

PDP: 4,003

ZLP: 2,004

There are 11 registration areas. Registered: 35,709. Accredited: 15,956. Valid: 15,649. Rejected: 298. Total Cast: 15,947

No cancelled polling units or ballots.

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Idanre LGA:

Prof. Fasasi Adeniyi is Collation Officer.

APC: 11,286

PDP: 7,499

ZLP: 3,623

There are 10 registration areas and 17 parties. Registered: 82,448. Accredited: 25,623. Valid:23,236. Rejected: 1,102. Total Cast: 24,338.

There were some cancellations. In ward 4, there were violence in some polling booths 009, 010,011,012 and 013. Officers there were forced to write report under duress.

In ward 6, 017, voting was prevented and 004 there was violence. Destruction of four polling booths in Ward four. Total cancelled votes 6,069.

There were a lot of violence in Idanre and a lot of people disenfranchised. INEC said it has taken note of the situation.

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Akure North LGA:

APC: 9,546

PDP: 12,263

ZLP: 1,046

There are 12 registration areas. Registered: 63,450. Accredited: 24,375. Valid: 23,528. Rejected: 810. Total cast: 24,338.

No cancellation in any unit.

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Owo LGA:

APC: 35,957

PDP: 5,311

ZLP: 408

Registered: 128,448. Accredited: 44,634. Valid: 42,680. Rejected: 980. Total Cast: 43,660.

No cancellation.

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Ondo East LGA:

Prof. Taiwo Olusegun served as Collation Officer.

There are 10 wards in the LGA.

APC: 6,485

PDP: 4,049

ZLP: 3,221

Registered: 50,495. Accredited: 14,952. Valid: 14,259. Rejected: 602. Total Cast: 14,861.

The Result of the election in Obada RA Unit 006 was cancelled because accreditation was done manually. Total number of voters there is 660. No people with disabilities there.

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Akoko Southwest:

Prof. Isiaka Olalekan served as Collation Officer.

APC:21,232.

PDP 15,055.

ZLP: 2,775.

There are 15 registration areas. Registered: 101,842. Accredited: 41,307. Valid: 40,130. Rejected: 1,052.

Total cast: 41,182. No cancellation.

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Akoko Northwest:

Prof. Segun Ogunbade is the Collation Officer.

APC: 15,809.

PDP: 10,320.

ZLP: 3,477.

There are 10 registration areas. Registered: 72,139. Accredited: 30,928. Valid: 30,247. Rejected: 607. Total cast: 30,854.

There were no cancelled polling units and no PWDs.

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Ifedore LGA:

APC: 9,350,

PDP: 11,852.

ZLP: 1,863.

Registered voters: 75257. Accredited 24,441. Valid: 23,654. Rejected: 754. Total cast: 24,408. No cancellation. Elections held in all wards.

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Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo LGA:

Collation Officer Prof. Felix Fabunmi.

APC: 13,278.

PDP: 9,231.

ZLP: 1,971.

Registration areas 10. Registered voters 72,841. Accredited 26,253. Valid: 25,208. Rejected: 1,037. Total Cast: 26,245.

Have a case of cancellation and it happened at unit 8, ward 5 as reported by the PO and RA. Cancelled because of over voting. Number displayed on card reader, 64 was far lower than accredited voters 164. PO was queried and he answered that the card reader malfunctioned. Consultations were made and resolved that votes be cancelled. Number of registered voters at polling unit 8, ward 5 was 210. We have a case with people with disabilities. Had about 50 of them in the LGA both female and male.

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Irele LGA:

APC: 12,643.

PDP: 5,493.

ZLP: 5,904.

Registered 66959. Accredited 25819. Valid: 24,842. Rejected: 867. Total Cast: 25,709.

No cancellation and no one presented as physically challenged.

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Akoko Northeast LGA:

APC: 16,572

PDP: 8,380

ZLP: 3,532

There are 13 registration areas. Registered: 80,040. Accredited: 30,409. Valid: 29,493. Rejected: 884. Total Cast: 30,377.

No cancellation. For PWD voters there were six visually impaired, five with physical disability. One speech impairment and one albinism totaling 15.

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Akure South LGA as announced at St. Peter’s, the LG Collation centre.

So far, eight out of 11 wards have been announced. Three awaited.

• Ward One (Aponmu) APC 759. PDP 1,200. ZLP 52. Registered Voters: 6,488. Accredited 2,147. Valid: 2,086. Rejected: 60.

• Ward two (Gbogi/Isikan I) APC: 1,838. PDP: 5,864. ZLP: 296. Registered: 33,575. Accredited: 8,295. Valid: 8,148. Rejected: 146. Total cast: 8,295. Three party agents signed- APC, PDP and ZLP.

• Ward three (Gbogi/Isikan II) APC 1,575. PDP 4,631. ZLP 214. Registered: 28,789. Accredited: 6,684. Valid 6,539. Rejected 125. Total cast 6,664.

• Ward five (LISA) APC 1,960. PDP 5,594. ZLP 460. Registered: 37,940. Accredited: 8,304. Valid: 8,138. Rejected: 155. Total cast 8 293.

• Ward six (Oda) APC 785. PDP 2,141. ZLP 87. Registered: 10,908. Accredited: 3,150. Valid 3,085. Rejected 65. Total cast 3,150.

• Ward seven (Odopetu) APC 1,217. PDP 3,314. ZLP 99. Registered: 20,238. Accredited: 4,850. Valid 4,722. Rejected: 128. Total cast: 4,850.

• Ward eight (Oke-Aro/Uro I) APC 1,896. PDP 5,304. ZLP 248. Registered: 31,098. Accredited: 7,766. Valid: 7,570. Rejected: 166. Total cast: 7,736.

• Ward nine (Oke-Aeo/Uro II) APC:1,798. PDP: 5,046. ZLP:163 Registered: 31,076 Accredited: 7,333. Valid: 7,140. Rejected: 157. Total cast: 7,297. Two party agents signed documents – APC and PDP.

• Ward 10 (Oshodi/Isolo) APC: 2,333 PDP: 5,864. ZLP: 212. Registered: 34172. Accredited: 8,727. Valid: 8,568. Rejected: 159. Total Cast: 8,727. Four party agents signed result

• Ward 11 (Owode/Imuagun) APC: 1,758. PDP: 5,084. ZLP:204. Registered: 164,661. Accredited: 40,258. Valid: 7,193. Rejected: 151. Total cast: 7 344.

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AKOKO NORTH EAST FINAL RESULT AS ANNOUNCED BY PROFESSOR A.O ADESOJI, LGA COLLATION OFFICER

APC – 16,572
PDP – 8,380
ZLP – 3,532

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#OndoDecides2020: Two injured, many arrested

By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

An unidentified man was stabbed and a five-year-old child knocked down by a patrol vehicle as Ondo people went to the polls on Saturday.

The two incidents were recorded at Akure, the state capital while voting was ongoing and both victims were recuperating at the police clinic.

Initial reports indicated that one Gboyega was shot by gunmen who opened sporadic fires at the Ijomu/Obanla area of the state but when our Correspondent visited unit four, ward four, voters said they were not aware of such incident.

It was gathered that gunmen, who wanted to scare voters, opened fire around Ijomu/Obanla junction, about 200 metres from the nearest polling unit scaring off bystanders.

Operatives of the Federal Road Safety CORPS (FRSC), who were nearby Ijomu Junction also ran for cover while empty shells of dispensed ammunition littered the tarred road where the incident occurred.

Security operatives, comprising the police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), brought the situation under control.

An eye witness, who gave his name as Tope, claimed the thugs are members of one of major political parties.

“They came here in their vehicle with guns, and started shooting as soon as they came out. One of them went straight to the boy [Gboyega], and shot him at close range.

“The hoodlums are here with us, we know them and the people who sent them. One of them was among those who shot people down the street last week. The boy was rushed to a hospital on motorcycle.

“The disturbing side of it is that the security men came, saw them with their guns, and yet allowed them to go. In fact, they escorted them out,” Tayo said.

A beverage seller said two suspects were arrested by the police, adding the two men were picked up for videoing the incident.

“Two men who snapped the injured man were arrested by the police. It happened before the rain started and security came quickly.

“What I heard was that they went straight for the man, tied him and stabbed him to the ground. I did not see it happen,” she said.

Confirming the incident, Police Commissioner, Bolaji Salami told The Nation there was no sign of gunshot injury on the victim, adding he has told the police he knew those who stabbed him.

Salami said: “We visited the man in the hospital. He is being treated at our hospital. He is stable and his family has seen him. What we heard initially was that the man was stabbed but when we got there, he has been moved to the hospital.

“We were told that some gunmen opened fire in the area but we didn’t see them when we got there.

“However, we have some people in custody who are assisting our investigation. Some people took pictures of the incident and they are assisting our investigation.

“I cannot tell you at the moment how many people have been arrested. We have been making arrests across the state and mopping up. The details will be released after we must have compiled and screened those in custody.”

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PU 14 Ward two Idanre local government area.

APC: 89

PDP: 52

ZLP: 43

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Ondo West Ward 1

APC: 1,045

PDP: 980

ZLP: 878

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Unit 005 Methodist Pry Sch., Gbogi/Isikan

APC: 28

PDP: 147

ZLP: 5

Unit 004, same school

APC: 35

PDP: 144

ZLP: 10

Unit 007, Ward 10, St Anthony Pry Sch 1, Araromi

APC: 74

PDP: 224

ZLP: 9

Unit 012, Akure High School2, Oshodi/Isolo

APC: 86

PDP: 308

ZLP: 10

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Akoko Northeast Orun Ward 1 unit 4

APC: 132

PDP: 42

ZLP: 93

Akoko Northeast Orun Ward 1 unit 2

Apc 135

Pdp 54

ZLP 46

Akoko Northeast Orun Ward 1 unit 1

APC: 119

PDP: 58

ZLP: 40

Akoko Northeast Orun Ward 1 unit 7

APC: 178

PDP: 39

ZLP: 14

Akoko Northeast Orun Ward 1 unit 6

APC: 124

PDP: 52

ZLP: 9

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Ondo West Ward 4 UNIT 12

APC: 165

PDP: 90

ZLP: 24

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Ondo West Ward 3, Unit 7

APC: 166

PDP: 73

ZLP: 53

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Ondo West Ward 9 Unit 15

APC: 64

PDP: 45

ZLP: 36

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Polling unit 16 ward 11 Emure, Owo Local Government

APC 410

PDP 38

ZLP 6

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IGBOROKO 2 ward3, Unit 16,

APC 192,

PDP 28,

ZLP 3,

SDP 2 ,

ADP 2,

AAC1

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Alasoadura’s Ward 8, Unit 5 result

APC: 125

PDP: 81

ZLP: 7

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Result from Unit 3, Ward 5, Owo LGA

APC: 300

PDP: 11

ZLP: 1

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Result from Akeredolu PU6 ward 5 Ijebu Owo

APC: 413

PDP: 12

ZLP: 0

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St Peter’s School, St Peter’s area, Akure

Unit 25, Ward 11, Akure South, St Peter’s Pry School, Akure.

APC :41

PDP:159

ZLP: 9

Ilesa Garrage, Unit 16, Ward 3, Akure South

APC: 69

PDP: 162

ZLP:10

FUTA Gate, Unit 23AB&C, Ward 3, Akure South

APC: 116

PDP: 267

ZLP: 18

Unit 013, beside Police Area Command, Elerinla

APC: 58

PDP: 175

ZLP: 9

Owode/Muagun

PDP: 163

APC :64

ZLP: 9

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Ward 5 (LISA), Akure South

Unit one: APC 63, PDP 106, ZLP 17.

Unit two: APC 47, PDP 91, ZLP 10.

Unit three: APC 60, PDP 106, ZLP 12.

Unit four: APC 47, PDP 120, ZLP 7

Unit five: APC 38, PDP 175, ZLP 5

Unit six: APC 66, PDP 176, ZLP 5.

Unit seven: APC 66, PDP 184, ZLP 9

Unit eight: APC 68, PDP 142, ZLP 11

Unit nine: APC 64, PDP 131, ZLP 2.

Unit 10: APC 35, PDP 143, ZLP 3

Unit 11:

Unit 12: APC 57, PDP 122, ZLP 5

Unit 13: APC 45, PDP 59, ZLP 7

Unit 14: APC 53, PDP 134, ZLP 10

Unit 15: APC 72, PDP 116, ZLP 19

Unit 16: APC 26, PDP 72, ZLP3

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Jubilation as Jegede wins polling unit

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Unit 004 odo idofin, Ugbe quarters, idogun, Ose LGA.

APC: 132

PDP: 30

ZLP: 8

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OSE LGA, Ward 5, PU 10

APC: 96

PDP: 116

ZLP: 10

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Akoko Northeast, ikare, ILEPA 1 OKEDADUN UNIT

APC: 106

PDP: 50

ZLP: 46

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3:15pm

Akoko North East, Ward 2, Ekan unit 003, ilepa.

APC: 158

PDP: 73

ZlLP: 32

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Agboola Ajayi’s polling unit result

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Akoko South West wrd10 Unit 13 Oke OGBONA Supare

APC= 317
PDP= 84
ZLP= 13

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Unit 5, ward 5 (Ebenezer African Primary School), Amudipe Street, Akure:

APC 38

PDP 175

ZLP 5

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Polling unit 006, Ward 005 (LISA) in Akure South LGA.

APC: 66

PDP: 176

ZLP: 5

 

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Polling Unit 006, Ward 005 (LISA), Akure South LGA.

16:03PM

APC: 66

PDP: 176

ZLP: 5

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Unit 18, Ward 5 (Alagbaka Primary School II)

APC: 91

PDP: 181

ZLP: 21

 

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(Alagbaka Primary School II) Akure:

Unit 19, ward 5.

Accredited voters 205. Void votes three.

APC: 68

PDP: 109

ZLP: 20

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School of Nursing, Unit 21, ward 5

APC: 57

PDP: 153

ZLP: 21

Total number of accredited voters 245. Ine rejected votes. Number of issued ballot papers 247, two spoilt.

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Cathedral ward 2 unit 09 Results

3:20PM

APC: 60

PDP: 220

ZLP: 7

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Sorting of results begins in Akeredolu’s polling unit

By Osagie Otabor, Akure

3:43PM

 

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Sorting of ballots yet to comence at Igbodan community, Ayeka/Igbodigo registration area Ward 1, Unit 17, where APC chieftain Ifeoluwa Oyedele voted

By Raymond Mordi, Okitipupa

3:19PM

 

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Jegede wins polling unit

By Bisi Oladele, Akure

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Eyitayo Jegede has won his polling unit.

He polled 220 votes to defeat Akeredolu of the APC who scored 60 and Agboola who polled seven votes.

Jegede votes at Unit 009, Ward 2, Akure LG located inside Sacred Heart Primary School, Cathedral area of Akure.

At the second unit in the primary school, Jegede polled 158 votes to defeat APC candidate who polled 43 and ZLP candidate Ajayi Agboola who polled four votes.

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Voters waiting for counting to commence along NEPA Road, Akure.

By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

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Counting of votes commences at ward 2 unit 9 Cathedral, Akure

Photo: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele

Counting of votes commences at ward 2 unit 9 Cathedral, Akure#OndoDecide2020 #Ondoelection #OndoElectionupdates pic.twitter.com/NVagZuihlw

— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) October 10, 2020

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By Bisi Oladele, Akure

Sorting of votes commences at Jegede’s polling centre, Unit 009, Ward 2, Akure South Local Government.

2:35PM

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Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs Tayo Alasoadura after casting his vote at Unit 5, Ward 8, Iju

2:25 PM

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VIDEO: I was not injured at polling centre, says Akeredolu’s wife

By Osagie Otabor, Akure

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Ever-busy Oba Adesida road, deserted

Ondo 2020: Ever-busy Oba Adesida road, Akure, Deserted#OndoDecide2020 #Ondoelection #OndoElectionupdates pic.twitter.com/zTUipomkVX

— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) October 10, 2020

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Vote buying ongoing at unit four, ward four. Canvassers Collecting the details on a man’s PVC

12:20PM

By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

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Boat conveying INEC officials, materials capsizes in Ondo

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Finally, Jegede votes, says I’ll win

By Bisi Oladele, Akure

Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Eyitayo Jegede eventually voted at 11:08 am, 10 minutes after the card reader failed to read his fingerprint and that of his wife, Eno.

Clad in white native attire with a blue cap to match, he dropped his ballot paper with excitement using two fingers to express victory.

In an interview with reporters, Jegede said he would win the election despite pockets of violence in some areas in Akure and Owo.

He said he was yet to receive reports from remote communities in the state as at press time.

He commended voters for their large turnout and for conducting themselves peacefully so far in the exercise.

On reports of violence, Jegede alleged one of his supporters, Sodiq Obanoyen, was attacked at his polling unit in Owo by thugs and some men clad in black dress, who he alleged were led by an unnamed commissioner.

Despite the incidents of violence, Jegede said he would win.

“Despite all of those incidents, we will win by the grace of God,” he said.

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Deputy Governor Agboola Ajayi expresses dismay after casting his ballot

11:49PM

By Raymond Mordi, Okitipupa

After casting his ballot at about 11.15am, Deputy Governor Agboola Ajayi has expressed dismay with the handling of logistics by security agencies. He told reporters at his polling unit in Kiribo, Ese-Odo Local Government that security agencies did a bad job, from what he has observed so far during the election and that they compromised the system.

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VIDEO: Helicopter hovering Akure

Photo: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele

Ondo 2020: Helicopter hovering Akure#OndoDecide2020 #Ondoelection #OndoElectionupdates pic.twitter.com/rM5l4ZSGx4

— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) October 10, 2020

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Helicopter hovering Akure

Photo: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele

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Ever-busy Oba Adesida road, Akure, Deserted

11:16 AM

Photo: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele

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Card reader fails to read Jegede, wife’s fingerprints

11:10AM

By Bisi Oladele, Akure

INEC card reader has failed to recognise Eyitayo Jegede’s fingerprints. The couple has waited for five minutes now for that failure.

It was the first time the machine has recorded the failure since voting started.

Their daughter just voted a minute earlier.

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One injured at unit 4, ward 4, Akure South

By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

10:48 AM

A man identified as Gboyega hasbbeen reported shot at unit four, ward four in Ijomu/Obanla, Akure South LGA.

The incident was said to have occurred around 8:04am when gun-wielding men invaded the polling unit, shooting sporadically to disperse voters.

It was learnt that the invasion forced prospective voters, reporters, election observers and INEC officials scampered to safety, as the hoodlums continued shooting for several minutes.

Operatives of the Federal Road Safety CORPS (FRSC), who were nearby Ijomu Junction also ran for cover.

Empty shell of dispensed ammunition littered the tarred road where the incident occurred.
Security operatives comprising the police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) brought the situation under control.

An eye witness who gave his name as Tope, claimed the thugs are members of one of major political parties.

“They came here in their vehicle with guns, and started shooting as soon as they came out. One of them went straight to the boy [Gboyega], and shot him at close range.

“The hoodlums are here with us, we know them and the people who sent them. One of them was among those who shot people down the street last week. The boy was rushed to a hospital on motorcycle.

“The disturbing side of it is that the security men came, saw them with their guns, and yet allowed them to go. In fact, they escorted them out,” Tayo said.

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One man feared shot at unit 4, ward 4, Ijomu/Obanla, Akure South LGA, at about

8:04AM

By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

 

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Gov Akeredolu addressing journalists after casting his vote

10:00 AM

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By Raymond Mordi, Okitipupa

9:57 AM

Electoral officials said voting started at 8.30am in all the five polling units located within the complex of Ilaje High School, Igbokoda.

But as at the time our reporter visited the units as at 9.45am, the turnout appeared low. Officials said people are coming out in trickles to exercise their franchise.

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Governor Akeredolu and his wife arrive polling unit, voted and left

9:56AM

By Osagie Otabor, Akure

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Voting continues after the rain at ward 7 unit Ashamo house, Idiot-Aagba, Akure 

By Isaac Jimoh Ayodele

9:40 AM

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By Raymond Mordi, Okitipupa

9:36 AM
As at 9.15am the voting proper is yet to commence at Polling Unit 5, Ugbonla Ward 2, in the heart of Mahinland. When our reporter visited the unit, voters were on queue, but officials were quarreling with some party agents over the issue of identification. Many others within the riverine community were going about their businesses.

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By Raymond Mordi, Okitipupa

9:36 AM

…election officials are available

There are 10 wards in Ilaje Local Government. People are still hanging around their communities generally; the election process has not taken off anywhere yet.

The elections are available and ready but people are not coming forward yet to join the queue.

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Policemen, military and paramilitary agents have fortified unit 11, ward four in Oke Ijebu where there was sporadic firing. Spokesman for the Police Command, Tee-Leo Ikoro said there was no casualty. An empty expended shell retrieved from the scene. No arrest made and voting has commenced there.

9:29AM

By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

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My party has been winning elections, says 87 years old voter

By Osagie Otabor, Akure

An 87-year old man, Mr. Okoromi David, who voted at polling Unit six, Ward five, Owo local government area has said that any political party he voted for does not lose election in Ondo State.

Mr. Okoromi who voted at PU six Ward five, said he has been participating in electoral process for a very long time.

“This one is different. My party has been winning elections since I started voting in elections.”

The Independent National Electoral Commission Supervisor for Owo, Ose and Akoko Southwest, Mr. Emeka Ononamadu, said he has not received any negative reports from any areas.

“Nigerians are responding positively to this election. There are observance of COVID-19 protocols

“No negative report from those areas. The conduct has been splendid and wonderful. The citizens are conducting themselves well. Citizens are cooperating well.”

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Ondo Election: Voting set to commence at Akeredolu unit

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Jegede and his wife Eno on the queue to vote

9:13AM

By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

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Police spokesman in Ondo State, Tee-Leo Ikoro confirms gunshot at Edo-Lodge in Oke Jebu, Akure. Details to be provided soon.

8:59AM

By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

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Accreditation begins at Akeredolu’s polling unit

8:58am

By Osagie Otabor, Akure

Accreditation has commenced at polling unit six Ward five Owo local government where the Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, is expected to cast his vote.

The voters were screened before accreditation.

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Ajayi has not withdrawn from race, says ZLP

The Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) has clarified that its governorship candidate, Deputy Governor Agboola Ajayi, has not withdrawn from the race.

The party said the purported statement on the social media is fake.

The Director of Media and Publicity, Ajayi Campaign Organisation, said on phone that the withdrawal was a figment of hyperactive imagination. He said those peddling rumours and falsehood are agents of potential losers of the poll.

Akinsola stressed “They are weak and afraid. Ajayi has not withdrawn. Ajayi will not withdraw. He is in the race to win.”

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8:12am: Voters checking their names at Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s PU 6, ward 5 at Owo, Owo LGA.

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7:50am: Electoral officers, Security operatives, and voters on ground at Unit 21, Ward 5, Alagbaka

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#OndoDecides: Election activities about to commence at Ward 11, unit 01, Oba Adesida road.

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Mimiko not qualified to play godfather in Ondo politics, says Oyedele

By Raymond Mordi, Okitipupa

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Engineer Ifeoluwa Oyedele has challenged former Governor Olusegun Mimiko to tell the people what he did in eight years that qualifies him to seek to foist one of his protegees on the state.

Speaking with reporters in his country home in Okitipupa today, Oyedele said Mimiko wasted the opportunity he had on projects that had no direct benefit on the people.

Oyedele, who the Executive Secretary of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company, said Mimiko did not leave any meaningful legacy that would qualify him to play he is now trying to play.

He 60 per cent of the people in Ondo State are unemployed and that those that are in employment are underemployed.

Oyedele said what the people need is a development plan prepared by experts and ratified by state House of Assembly, “such that any governor that takes over the reins of power would continue the implementation of the policy”.

He said he stepped down for Governor Rotimi Akeredolu before the APC primary to allow him to consolidate on his achievements in the last four years.

He urged the people to vote for the APC candidate to allow him to continue his good work.
Okitipupa, the headquarters of Local Government in Ondo South Senatorial District, is the home town the PDP Deputy Governorship candidate, Gboluga Ikengboju, who is currently a member of the House of Representatives.

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Ondo polls: Our security plan’s robust, say Police

…Arrest 25 for ‘firearms’ possession

5:56PM

By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in charge of election security, Leye Oyebade in Ondo State yesterday said there was robust mechanism on ground to ensure safety of all stakeholders.

He said the police have deployed tactical squads and experts who have worked behind the scenes and were able to crime map the state for adequate security planning.

Oyebade said the police in collaboration with the navy, have adequately secured the riverine areas of the state.

“We have been able to put a robust mechanism on ground what is going to work, mechanism such that it is going to give us the desired result which is safety.

“We have deployed to the riverine areas. At least three per unit. We have deployed men to all the collation centers and given adequate protection to INEC officials, materials and all the necessary areas that are meant to be covered.

“Our preparation has been ongoing before now, behind the scene, we have been able to crime map the state and noted the threat analysis.

“We will not be distracted. We have enough personnel to address the issues of banditry, kidnapping and all of that. We have our technical platform to track and do the needful. “We have adequate number to address the supervision of this election, personnel are sound technically. We are good to go.

“We have been able to structure the terrain, the waterways, land and air, all entry and exit points. We have been able to get adequate personnel lectured, trained, tutored to be professional.

“So, with the personnel we have on ground, appropriate logistics and with the mindset to sacrifice because this is a major event to celebrate our democracy; the police officers morale is very high. We know that the police and other security agencies are ready to protect lives and properties.

“We have been able to support in terms of protection of INEC officials and transportation of INEC materials that started for some days now and it has been ongoing without any issue.

“We have also had confidence building patrols and have assured the people of their safety. We are on ground to protect them and so, they should come out and cast their votes.

“I appeal to everyone to be guided by the guidelines for peaceful conduct of election.

“We have a code of conduct guiding the personnel that have been deployed. They have been given a tag with their names and pictures on it to identify them in the places they are posted. Their names and mobile numbers are also with the officials at the various places they are posted. That is how we will curb fake or illegal policemen.

“We have also sent out dedicated mobile numbers- 07049960674 and 09152784339. These two numbers are for members of the public to have access to us through calls and text messages. If they think there is an urgent matter going on, they can send a message or pictures, videos to us through WhatsApp on this number; 07049936417,” he said.

The DIG appealed to Nigerians to respect the movement restriction that would commence by midnight and relaxed at 6pm on Saturday, October 10.

Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Commissioner (CP) Bolaji Salami said at least 25 suspects have been arrested in the last two weeks for illegal possession of firearms.

The suspects were alleged to be political thugs armed for the disruption of the electioneering process but were picked out by tactical sqauds following actionable intelligence.

According to Salami, most of them have been charged to court, adding that the police would leave no stone unturned to ensure peace and security during and after the voting processes.

“We have been picking them out. We have arrested like 25 for illegal possession of firearms and charged them to court. So far, there is calm and we are well prepared to ensure this exercise goes smoothly,” he said.

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INEC officials checking their names for posting at INEC office at Oda road

4:37PM

Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele

 

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Ondo decides: 60 sniffer dogs, 7,079 to be deployed by NSCDC

4:31PM

By Osagie Otabor, Akure 

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) said it has deployed about 60 sniffer dogs and 7,079 officers and men drawn from the six South West states including Kogi and Kwara commands for today’s governorship election in Ondo State.

It said four Assistant Commandant General would be on duty during the poll.

Deputy Commandant General, Operations, Hilary Madu, who spoke in Akure on the preparedness of the corps for the Ondo polls six of the sniffer dogs would be deployed to INEC headquarters to complement personnel from Special Force, Intelligence Department and SWAT unit.

Madu stated that the NSCDC officials have been properly briefed on their roles during the poll.

He assured that the Ondo people’s right would be respected without compromising security of lives and property.

According to him, “We have come to monitor and provide security for the governorship election in Ondo State coming up on Saturday. We have deployed 7,079 security officers.

“When we go for election, we ensure that we have our eyes opened to ensure that we do not have money politics. That is, people bringing money or gifts to voting centres.

“Our men will respect people of this state. Nobody should indulge in use of excessive force on the indigenes of this state and our armed men would not be deployed close to voting centre. Sixty sniffer dogs will also be deployed across the state.”

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Ondo: We’re committed to free, fair polls, says INEC

…As electoral materials move to RAC centres

By Precious Igbonwelundu, Akure

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said its commitment to free, fair and credible governorship elections in Ondo State was unwavering, assuring that successes in the exercise would surpass that of Edo State.

Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Oluwatoyin Akeju, told The Nation on telephone that all arrangements have been made and voting materials moved to their various Registration Area Centres (RACs) for easy disbursement to respective polling units Saturday morning.

According to Akeju, the movement of both sensitive and none sensitive materials from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Akure to the local offices across the state on Thursday was without any hitch, adding that no complaints has been received on the evacuation of the materials to the RACs.

Akeju told The Nation that INEC moved the materials early enough to prevent hitches, adding that the idea was to make the electoral officials retire early in order to wake up early tomorrow and move to their respective polling booths.

“We have not only moved to the LGA offices but have successfully transferred the materials to the RACS. This is to ensure that they retire on time and wake up early enough, count and move the materials to the polling booths.

“We are being proactive this time around and we are sure that we will not make mistakes by the grace of God. So far so good, there has been no issues. There is calm here at the headquarters. Normally, if there were issues, they would have contacted us to report but we have not received any. That means there has been no issue.”

Asked how INEC intends to curb rigging and other electoral malpractices especially in Ondo South Senatorial District notorious for violence and rigging, Akeju said adequate arrangements have been made to curb illegality.

“This time, anybody that tries ballot box snatching will be dealt with accordingly. You need to go there to see what is on ground. Instead of two security operatives that we always have, we now have four.

“All our equipments are protected by ambitious police and naval officers and they have showed strong commitment to the process and loyalty. We have advocated for peace and also assured voters to have confidence in the process and not be afraid. We are going to do better than Edo.”
On vote buying, Akeju warned people to desist, stressing that both the buyer and seller would be made to face the law,” he said.

Our Correspondent who visited INEC’s Akure South Local Government Area office, observed that several cars were waiting outside the premises for their turn to load water, mats, ballot boxes, generator, card readers and other equipments needed, just as armed Police Mobile Force (PMF) operatives assigned to escort the vehicles were seated under a canopy inside the premises.

At Ward 7 RAC located at St. Martin’s Primary School, screening of adhoc staff was ongoing around 3pm with a handful of policemen restricting access into the premises.

Earlier at INEC’s headquarters in Akure, some observers were seen with their travel bags lamenting their inability to get accommodation in the state capital.

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Traffic along Oba Adesida road, the main street in Akure:

3:37pm

Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele

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Distribution of INEC materials at Oda road

1:25 PM

Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele

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We are well prepared for tomorrow’s governorship election in Ondo, says INEC REC

1:59PM

By Precious Igbonwelundu 

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Distribution of INEC materials at Oda road

1:25 PM

Photos: Isaac Jimoh Ayodele

 

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Electoral materials leaving INEC’s LGA office, Akure South to the various wards 

By Precious Igbonwelundu 

Electoral materials leaving INEC’s LGA office, Akure South to the various wards#OndoDecides2020 #OndoDecides #INEC pic.twitter.com/D03TeJh0lH

— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) October 9, 2020

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ONDO 2020: Current situation at INEC office, GRA, Akure

1:25 pm

By Isaac Jimoh Ayodele

#Ondo2020: Current situation at INEC office, GRA, Akure#OndoDecides2020 pic.twitter.com/kt0Kl2I0Gb

— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) October 9, 2020

ONDO 2020: Current situation at INEC office, GRA, AKURE pic.twitter.com/jphRSxfMS4

— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) October 9, 2020

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Election monitors stranded in Akure as hotels, guest houses fully booked

10: 41AM

By Precious Igbonwelundu 

 

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INEC to PDP, Makinde: it’s our duty to appoint Returning Officer

09:21AM

By Okodili Ndidi, Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said the Returning Officer appointed for Saturday Ondo governorship election is not from the State as insinuated by chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) National Campaign Council and Oyo Governor, Seyi Makinde.

The PDP National Campaign Council had rejected the appointment of Professor Eyitope Ogunbodede, the Vice-Chancellor of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, as Returning Officer for the election.

Makinde raised the alarm the election will be compromised if Ogunbodede is allowed to serve as the Returning Officer, alleging he is a crony of Ondo Governor Rotimi Areredolu and hails from Owo with the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate.

But National Commissioner & Chairman Information and Voter Education, Festus Okoye, in a statement, said the Commission will not be drawn into speculations relating to the performance of its constitutional and statutory functions.

He insisted that INEC does not share the responsibility of appointing Returning Officers for elections with any individual or political party.

He assured the Commission is focused on the conducting free, fair and peaceful election and can’t be distracted by speculations.

According to him: “The attention of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been drawn to a press conference addressed by the Chairman of the PDP National Campaign Council and Governor of Oyo State, Mr. Seyi Makinde, on Thursday October 8, 2020 to the effect that the Commission has appointed the Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Professor Eyitope Ogungbenro Ogunbodede, as the Returning Officer for the Ondo Governorship election taking place on October 10, 2020.

“While the Commission will not be drawn into speculations relating to the performance of its constitutional and statutory functions, it is imperative to set the records straight for the benefit of the people of Ondo State and the integrity of the electoral process.

“It is the sole responsibility of the Commission to appoint a Returning Officer for the Ondo Governorship election and does not share this responsibility with any individual, group or Political Party”.

The commission added: “For the avoidance of doubt, the Returning Officer for the Ondo Governorship election is not from Ondo State and not from the University mentioned in the said press conference.

“The Returning Officer appointed by the Commission will report to the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ondo State on the date conveyed in his letter of appointment issued several days ago.

“The Commission is firmly focused on the conduct of free, fair and peaceful election and implores all the stakeholders to cooperate and play their own part in ensuring peaceful election and not to engage in unhelpful speculation.

“The main concern of the Commission is in ensuring a credible electoral process while the outcome is in the hands of the people of Ondo State”.

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PDP rejects Prof. Ogungbero as Ondo Returning Officer 

14:56

By Osagie Otabor, Akure 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected Vice Chancellor of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Prof. Eyitope Ogungbenro Ogunbodede, as Chief Returning Officer of Saturday’s governorship election in Ondo.

The party alleged Ondo residents cannot get free and fair election with the present composition of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Chairman of the PDP National Campaign Council, Governor Seyi Makinde, who spoke at a briefing in Akure, said Ogunbodede was a known crony of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and hails from Owo, hometown of Akeredolu.

Makinde, who insisted that Ogunbodede would not be a fair umpire in the proceedings by virtue of his association with Akeredolu, called on INEC to immediately replace him.

Makinde said OAU Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Prof. A S Bamire, who conducted the training of Returning Officers was not a neutral party for the purpose of Saturday’s election.

The Oyo Governor threatened that anybody that attempted to rig Saturday’s election would be reported to the international community.

He said they were crying out because once the Returning Officer made a pronouncement, it would resort to the going to the tribunal.

“Why did INEC bring somebody from Owo? Why go to OAU? Are there no other universities? We don’t want Ondo people to be cheated.

“We also take this opportunity to call on all lovers of democracy around the world to pay attention to what the APC led administration in the center is trying to do in Ondo State.

“We call on the United Nations, the European Union, the United State and the United Kingdom and indeed all allies of democracy to call INEC to order.

“We call on all security agencies in Ondo State allow themselves to be used as a tool against the will of the people.

“We commend you for all you have done so far providing the needed support and security for our candidate and our people.

“We urge you to do more. Don’t forget that history and posterity have never been kind to anyone who allow themselves to be used as a tool for injustice.

“We urge you to read the mood of the people and act accordingly. Politicians may come and go, but the people will always remain. Remember, the world is watching.”

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PHOTOS: Distribution of sensitive material in Ondo

12:04PM