PDP Calls for Removal of Ondo REC Amid Election Concerns

As the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State approaches, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has once again called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to redeploy the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola. In an open letter addressed to INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, the PDP expressed concerns over Babalola’s affiliation with Ondo State, arguing that her residency and local connections compromise her neutrality.

The PDP’s state secretary, Oluseye Olujimi, emphasized that Babalola’s permanent domicile in Akure, the state capital, raises questions about her ability to impartially oversee the upcoming election. The party reiterated that Babalola’s strong ties to the state could undermine public confidence in the electoral process, making her unfit for the role of REC in the gubernatorial election.

Peoples Democratic Party’s Request for REC’s Removal Cites Concerns Over Integrity

In their letter, thePeoples Democratic Party stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of the election process, pointing out that Babalola’s deep-rooted association with Ondo State poses a threat to the credibility of the election. According to Olujimi, the party had previously communicated its concerns to INEC, but the commission’s decision to retain Babalola as REC has led to growing apprehensions.

The letter further highlighted the potential for Babalola’s continued presence in the role to create unrest and deepen mistrust in the electoral process. Peoples Democratic Party warned that National Electoral Commission’s refusal to act on this request could lead to unnecessary controversies and undermine Nigeria’s fragile democracy. The party’s concerns are compounded by accusations that Babalola has held meetings with the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Allegations of Bias and Partisanship Surface

The PDP’s letter also accused Babalola of engaging in partisan activities that favor the incumbent governor, raising doubts about her impartiality. According to the party, there have been reports of nocturnal meetings between Babalola and Aiyedatiwa, which the Peoples Democratic Party believes compromise her position as an unbiased umpire in the election. These allegations have intensified calls for her removal, as the party claims that such actions violate the principles of neutrality expected from an electoral officer.

The Peoples Democratic Party noted that the REC’s association with the state, coupled with her alleged meetings with the APC candidate, raises critical questions about the fairness of the election. The party urged INEC to consider the serious implications of retaining Babalola in her current position, especially in light of these allegations of partisanship and bias.

National Electoral Commission’s Response and the Way Forward

INEC’s initial response to the PDP’s request has been met with criticism from the opposition party. The commission had previously stated that Babalola would not be removed, arguing that she is not originally from Ondo State. However, the Peoples Democratic Party refuted this claim, providing details of Babalola’s longstanding residency in the state, which they believe disqualifies her from serving as the REC.

The PDP’s open letter concluded by calling on INEC to prioritize the preservation of democracy and public trust. The party warned that failure to act on their request could result in a repeat of the controversies witnessed during the recent Edo State gubernatorial election, which were marred by allegations of bias and manipulation. The PDP vowed to continue its protests until INEC reconsiders its position on the Ondo REC. The call for removal of REC in Ondo by Peoples Democratic Party at the eleven hour of election may be counterproductive because preparation towards the election must had gone to advance stage