Opposition parties in Ogun State, including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), have declared they will protest if the upcoming November 16 local government election lacks transparency and fairness. Speaking on Tuesday, representatives from various opposition parties urged the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) to conduct a credible election, warning of possible demonstrations if their concerns are not addressed.
Tokunbo Peters, the state publicity secretary for the Labour Party, emphasized that LP collation agents would be stationed at all polling units to verify that OGSIEC’s official results match those declared at polling stations. Peters stressed that if discrepancies arise, the party will mobilize supporters for protests, in addition to pursuing legal actions.
Peters detailed LP’s campaign efforts across all 20 local government areas, asserting, “We are prepared, with collation agents present at every level to ensure transparency. If OGSIEC’s final results do not align with what is recorded at polling units, we will resist through protests.”
Governor Dapo Abiodun, meanwhile, predicted that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will secure a sweeping victory, citing his administration’s achievements and the APC’s strong candidate lineup. He suggested that the opposition lacks substantial presence, to which Peters responded, accusing the APC of alleged plans to manipulate the election, stating, “The only way APC can win is by rigging.”
Tunde Oladunjoye, APC’s publicity secretary, countered the accusations, claiming that APC’s projects and programs have earned genuine support among residents, positioning the party for success on election day.
PDP state chairman Abayomi Tella appealed to OGSIEC and political parties to adhere strictly to electoral guidelines to prevent conflicts. “If the process is transparent and votes are properly counted, we have no issues. But if irregularities arise, we will resist any attempt at backdoor manipulation,” Tella stated.
The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) chair, Abayomi Sanyaolu, reaffirmed their demand for a free and fair election, holding OGSIEC to its promise of transparency.
OGSIEC chairman Babatunde Osibodu assured the public that all political parties would be treated equally, affirming that security arrangements are in place to ensure voters can participate safely on November 16.
