The Governor of Ondo State and the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has cast his vote at his polling unit in Igbo Ward 4, Obenla community, Ilaje Local Government Area of the state.
Aiyedatiwa, who was escorted by his security aides, arrived at his polling unit around 8:46 am and voted exactly 8:50 am amidst cheers from his kinsmen.
Seventeen political parties are fielding candidates in the election but it is expected to be a straight contest between the incumbent Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress and Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party.
Credible News reports that security agencies have reinforced measures to ensure a peaceful electoral process, deploying extensive personnel and resources to maintain law and order across the state.
The Defence Headquarters announced the deployment of troops to the border areas and flashpoints in a coordinated effort to support the Nigeria Police Force and ensure the smooth conduct of the election.
According to the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Buba Edward, the deployment is meant to deter any interference with the voting process and keep troublemakers at bay.
READ ALSO: Tinubu calls for peaceful governorship election in Ondo
Edward noted that troops would also assist in the transport of sensitive election materials for the Independent National Electoral Commission.
“Troops are deployed in strength to assist the police in Ondo State for the off-cycle governorship election on November 16. The military presence is to provide security, enabling voters to cast their ballots without fear of harassment.
Indeed, troops’ presence is to ensure the security of citizens, enabling them to cast their votes without any form of harassment or intimidation while keeping mischief-makers at bay. The NAF is already engaged in flying sensitive electoral material in support of INEC,” Edward stated.
Also, President Bola Tinubu has called for peaceful transition of power in the state, urging all candidates and supporters to uphold the tenet of democracy.
Credible News.ng
