Ekiti Guber Election Result Rejected by PDP Candidate Over Alleged Irregularities
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Dr. Wole Oluyede, the PDP candidate in the Ekiti State governorship election, has rejected the declared results, citing irregularities.
- His campaign organization alleged vote buying, voter intimidation, and the failure of security operatives to maintain neutrality.
- Oluyede stated the election outcome was predetermined and vowed to pursue justice through lawful means.
Dr. Wole Oluyede, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Ekiti State governorship election, has officially rejected the results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Oluyede asserts that the election, held on Saturday, was marred by significant irregularities and did not represent the genuine democratic will of the people of Ekiti State.
Through his campaign organization, Oluyede detailed accusations including widespread vote buying, intimidation of voters, and harassment directed at opposition supporters. The campaign also criticized the conduct of some security operatives, alleging a lack of neutrality that contributed to an atmosphere of fear and unfairness across the state.
Oluyede stated that the circumstances surrounding the election suggest its outcome was preordained, thereby denying voters their right to freely choose their leaders. Despite his rejection of the results, he urged his supporters and party members to remain calm and law-abiding.
He has pledged to pursue justice through all available lawful and democratic channels. Oluyede also called upon INEC, security agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to uphold principles of fairness, justice, and accountability to safeguard Nigeria's democracy.
The declared result did not reflect the true will and democratic aspirations of the people of Ekiti State.
Originally published by ThisDay in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.