“Ondo Decides 2024: Yiaga Africa Lauds Peaceful Elections Amidst Reports of Vote Buying”
By Admin. 17th 2024, November, 2024.
In the recently concluded 2024 Ondo State gubernatorial election, Yiaga Africa commended the peaceful and orderly conduct of the process while highlighting some areas of concern, including widespread incidents of vote buying. The civil society group also praised the professionalism displayed by security personnel and applauded the prompt actions of the Department of State Services (DSS), which reportedly arrested a suspect involved in vote-buying activities.
In its post-election statement, Yiaga Africa extended congratulations to Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on his victory, urging him and his supporters to remain magnanimous. The group called on all political stakeholders to prioritize maturity and peace, emphasizing the need for elected officials to uphold their campaign promises.
“Yiaga Africa urges Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa and all APC supporters to be magnanimous in their victory and calls on all candidates, political parties, and Nigerians to display political maturity and uphold peace,” the statement read.
The group commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for ensuring the timely opening of polling stations and prompt announcement of results. Furthermore, the Interagency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) received praise for its efforts in coordinating resources to maintain a non-violent atmosphere throughout the election.
Acknowledging the resilience of Ondo State voters, Yiaga Africa expressed gratitude to the many non-partisan citizen observers involved in its Watching The Vote (WTV) initiative. The organization noted the dedication of INEC staff and the contributions of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who served as polling officials.
“Yiaga Africa commends the people of Ondo for their resilience and dedication to conducting a non-violent election. We encourage the people of Ondo State to engage in the democratic process even after the elections by ensuring that elected officials are held accountable for their campaign promises,” the group stated.
Despite the peaceful atmosphere, Yiaga Africa acknowledged the rampant issue of vote buying, a persistent challenge in Nigeria’s electoral system. However, the group lauded the DSS for taking decisive action to address this concern.
In conclusion, Yiaga Africa reaffirmed its commitment to promoting credible elections and strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process. The group highlighted its WTV initiative, underscoring its motto: “Driven by Data – For All Nigerians – Beholden to None!”
