Low Turnout and Peaceful Voting Characterize Ondo Local Government Elections Amid Apathy
Voter apathy marked the ongoing local government elections in Ondo, with only a handful of residents turning out to cast their ballots in some areas. At Unit 4, Ward 9, Oba Ile, the election process was peaceful, with voters quietly making their choices. Chief Aladesaye Michael, an elder statesman, confirmed there were no issues during the voting process, although he noted a low turnout. “The few people who came out are voting for their preferred candidates,” he said.
Similarly, Fagoroyo Adedeji, a candidate for councillorship, expressed satisfaction with the election’s smooth conduct. “There were no challenges at all,” he remarked, confirming that everything was well-organized. At Unit 7, Ward 9, Adesoye Fagoroyo, another councillorship hopeful, expressed confidence in his chances, citing strong support from local voters. He emphasized that his people were passionate about electing him to lead them.
Despite a lack of significant opposition, with the main opposition party, PDP, pulling out of the race, the ruling APC party candidates are expected to face little resistance in securing victories across various wards. “There was no thuggery or disruption,” Fagoroyo added, highlighting the smooth and peaceful nature of the election, which saw security personnel on hand to maintain order.
However, delays were reported in some areas, including Ward 4, Unit 22 in Akure, where voting materials arrived late, causing a late start. Olayemi Olantewaju, a presiding officer at the unit, confirmed the delay, but assured that voting was now underway.
While several units reported minimal voter turnout, with many polling stations still opening late, there was an underlying sense of optimism from local candidates. Hon. Adebayo Ayodele, a councillorship candidate, expressed confidence in his victory, noting that despite the delays, voters were enthusiastic and ready to support their chosen leaders.
At Ward 4, Unit 14, elections began later in the morning, with local candidate Akinsulu Samuel Oluwashina stating his belief that the election was the best in the state. Despite the challenges posed by voter apathy, the smooth and orderly conduct of the election across most areas suggested a peaceful end to the process.
