If the over one million residents who collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) in Ondo State, only 35 per cent participated in last Saturday’s House of Assembly poll, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Olusegun Agbaje, has said.
The REC decried the low turnout, saying enough time and money was invested to enlighten the people.
Agbaje spoke yesterday at the presentation of Certificates of Return to victorious National Assembly lawmakers in Akure, the state capital.
He condemned the incessant electoral malpractices in Ilaje Local Government Area.
“We are particularly worried about the rate of electoral violence in Ilaje, the area is becoming notorious in the state. Our politicians, youths, religious leaders and security operatives need to do more in tackling electoral malpractices.
“Snatching of materials, intimidation of ad hoc workers and opposition are not good for our democratic system. Ondo State is well enlightened and we need to eradicate these if our party leaders, traditional and religious leaders are ready to partner us.”
The National Commissioner in charge of Lagos, Ogun and Ondo states, Prof. Akinola Salawu, condemned electoral malpractices, saying crimes do not add values but weakens democracy.
Speaking on behalf of the lawmakers-elect, Senator Ajayi Boroffice assured the people they would work together to bring progress to the country.
Boroffice said: “Here, politics stop, when you get there, you don’t introduce yourself as PDP or APC member. We work as a team representing the interest of the state.”