The local government elections held on Saturday in Ondo State were characterized by low voter turnout and significant logistical challenges, particularly at the start of the exercise in many polling centres.
According to reports by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), elections scheduled to run from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. did not commence in most polling units until around 10:00 a.m.
In Okitipupa Local Government Area, polling centres in Ilutitun, Ode-Aye, Okitipupa, Ikoya, and Igbodigo recorded no voters as of 10:15 a.m. At several locations, officials of the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) were seen waiting idly for voters who did not show up.
At Units 001, 002, 010, and 012 in Okitipupa Ward 1, as well as Units 001, 012, and 013 in Ward 13, ODIEC ad hoc staff were yet to arrive as of 10:05 a.m. Similarly, polling centres in Oba-Ile (Akure North Local Government) and Ilara (Ifedore Local Government) were virtually empty by 10:00 a.m.
Despite the challenges, some polling units experienced relatively smooth processes. At Unit 4, Ward 9, Oba-Ile, Akure North Local Government, Presiding Officer Mr. Bayo Akoledowo reported that voting began at 8:30 a.m., describing turnout as “relatively good.”
Chief Michael Aladesaye, a voter at the unit, praised the peaceful conduct of the election. Another voter, Mr. Martins Fagoroyo, noted that turnout was “impressive” and anticipated more participation later in the day.
At Unit 7, Ward 9, Oba-Ile, APC Councillorship Candidate Mr. Adesoye Fagoroyo expressed confidence in his victory, noting the peaceful process and large turnout. He highlighted his position as the sole candidate in the ward.
In Akure South Local Government, voting began around 9:35 a.m. at Units 7 and 27, Ward 4, though turnout remained sparse. At Unit 22, Ward 4, Presiding Officer Mrs. Olayemi Olarewanju cited the late arrival of voting materials as the cause of delays, stating that the unit expected 387 voters.
The APC Vice Chairmanship Candidate in Akure South Local Government, Mr. Adebayo Ayodele, expressed optimism about his party’s chances, attributing it to its popularity and acceptance by the electorate.
While the elections proceeded peacefully, the combination of voter apathy and logistical challenges raised concerns about the effectiveness and inclusivity of the process in Ondo State.
