The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the just-concluded governorship election held on Saturday in Ondo State.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emerged victorious after securing the highest number of votes in the keenly contested election.
The incumbent governor triumphed over several formidable opponents, including Ajayi Agboola of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olorunfemi Festus of the Labour Party (LP), and Abbas Mimiko of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), among others.
Announcing the final results on Sunday in Akure, the state capital, INEC’s Returning Officer for the election and Vice Chancellor of Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Akinwumi Olayemi Durotimi, stated that Governor Aiyedatiwa polled a total of 366,781 votes to secure his reelection.
His closest rival, Ajayi Agboola of the PDP, garnered 117,845 votes, while the Labour Party’s Olorunfemi Festus managed 1,162 votes. Abbas Mimiko of the ZLP, the younger brother of former Governor Olusegun Mimiko, also made an appearance in the race but failed to make a significant impact.
The election, which was largely peaceful across the 18 local government areas of Ondo State, saw a notable turnout of voters who trooped out to exercise their civic responsibility despite initial fears of low participation.
Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Army, ensured adequate security at polling units and collation centers, thereby maintaining order throughout the electoral process.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed profound gratitude to the people of Ondo State for renewing their trust in his administration.
He pledged to prioritize the continued development of the state, with a focus on infrastructure, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment.
The governor also extended a hand of fellowship to his opponents, urging them to join him in the collective task of building a better Ondo State.Ajayi Agboola, the PDP candidate, has yet to comment on the outcome of the election.
Political analysts, however, have noted that the APC’s victory reinforces its stronghold in the state, which has long been a battleground for major political parties in Nigeria.
INEC, on its part, commended the electorate, political parties, and security agencies for their roles in ensuring a credible and transparent election. Observers, including representatives from civil society groups, lauded the commission for its improved logistics and adherence to the guidelines outlined in the Electoral Act.
