The local government elections held on Saturday across Ondo State witnessed a low turnout of voters despite preparations by the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC).
According to ODIEC, 13 political parties participated in the exercise. However, the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), withdrew from the election on Wednesday, citing doubts about the commission’s ability to conduct credible polls.
Electoral officers arrived at polling units by 8 a.m., but voter participation remained minimal. At various polling units, officers were seen waiting for voters. For instance, at Sacred Heart Primary School in Akure, an electoral officer reported that fewer than 20 people had voted as of 11:30 a.m. Similar low turnout was observed at Ward 4, Unit 27, and Unit 7; as well as Ward 2, Units 9 and 10.
Despite the low voter participation, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ebenezer Adeniyan, expressed satisfaction with the process. Adeniyan, who voted at Unit 7, Ward 4, Akure South Local Government, described the election as smooth and peaceful, though he acknowledged the turnout could have been better.
“The process was smooth and peaceful,” Adeniyan stated. “The turnout could be better, but this is a good outing for Ondo State. It marks progress towards local government autonomy. Reports indicate no major incidents across the state.”
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who cast his vote at Polling Unit 5, Ugbo Ward 4, Ilaje Local Government, praised ODIEC for conducting a seamless election. He emphasized the importance of grassroots development and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to effective local government operations in compliance with the law.
The election process has been lauded for its peaceful conduct, but the low voter turnout remains a concern for stakeholders.