PDP Claims Aiyedatiwa’s Campaign in “Panic Mode

As the November 16 gubernatorial election in Ondo State draws closer, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified its criticism of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the incumbent and candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to PDP Publicity Secretary Hon. Kennedy Peretei, the APC’s initially confident stance has shifted to one of apprehension. Peretei remarked, “As the election approaches, those who once proclaimed the election as a walk-over are now struggling to find rest, slipping into what can only be described as ‘panic mode.’” He suggested that the APC had underestimated the opposition’s strength and is now grappling with the realities on the ground.

Peretei accused the APC of losing touch with the electorate, citing a widespread disillusionment among the people. “The comfort of their offices is a stark contrast to the daily hardships faced on the streets, where hunger and scarcity walk on all fours,” he stated. He claimed that during Aiyedatiwa’s campaign stops, Ondo residents have been vocal about their dissatisfaction, blaming the APC for the economic struggles they face.

APC Responds: “PDP’s Claims Are Baseless”

In response, the APC dismissed the PDP’s statements as unfounded. APC spokesperson Steve Otaloro described the PDP’s comments as “amusing,” asserting that the ruling party remains confident in its chances of securing a victory. “The PDP’s claim that the APC is slipping into panic mode is a weak attempt to divert attention from their own issues,” Otaloro declared. He emphasized that the APC’s internal cohesion and strategic planning will carry the party to victory on election day.

Otaloro underscored that the APC remains focused on policies and achievements that positively impact the people of Ondo State. He also took the opportunity to criticize the PDP’s tactics, stating that the opposition was more focused on propaganda than on substantive solutions for Ondo’s future. According to Otaloro, Aiyedatiwa’s administration has a strong track record that will resonate with voters, and the PDP’s attempts to instill doubt will fall flat.

PDP Accuses APC of Empty Promises Amid Economic Struggles

The PDP continued its attack on Aiyedatiwa’s administration, accusing the governor of making unfulfilled promises in a bid to win votes. Peretei noted that despite promises of improved wages, APC political appointees and workers have been left unpaid in recent months. He pointed out that 416 political appointees from across 203 electoral wards reportedly did not receive their October salaries, raising doubts about the government’s commitment to workers’ welfare. “What guarantees do they have that, after the election, their salaries will be secure?” Peretei asked.

The PDP also criticized the governor’s pledge of a N73,000 minimum wage, which it labeled as another empty campaign promise. Peretei argued that if Aiyedatiwa’s administration had a genuine commitment to improving workers’ lives, they would not rely on unfulfilled pledges to garner support. He suggested that the administration’s reliance on campaign promises rather than actual governance accomplishments demonstrates the governor’s desperation to retain power.

APC’s Counter: Security and Stability Are Top Priorities

Amidst these accusations, the APC reinforced its commitment to maintaining peace and security throughout the election period. The party appointed Adetunji Adeleye, Commandant of the Amotekun Corps, as the head of a 25-member security committee to oversee campaign activities, ensuring safety for both candidates and the electorate. However, the PDP questioned this move, alleging that it indicates a lack of faith in Aiyedatiwa’s ability to govern without additional measures to secure his position.

Despite the PDP’s criticisms, the APC maintained that its campaign will focus on delivering a secure and prosperous future for Ondo State. Otaloro dismissed accusations of desperation as “false and baseless,” arguing that the APC’s administration is transparent and dedicated to Ondo’s stability. He further noted that Aiyedatiwa’s track record speaks for itself, and that voters will recognize the value of continuity in governance on election day.