Ondo polls: Protesters demand removal of Ondo REC
Some protesters on Wednesday, October 2, protested at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Akure and demanded the removal of the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola.
The protesters accused the Ondo REC of romancing political parties in the state ahead of the November 16, governorship election.
They expressed fears that the election would not be free and fair if Mrs. Babalola was allowed to preside over the conduct of the polls.
The spokesman for the protesters and Akure South Coordinator of Vanguard for Democracy, Olawale Ijanusi, said the protest was because they wanted their votes to count.
He said: “We demand for a free and fair election. We want the umpire not to be biased. We have been hearing stories that the Ondo REC has been having a romance with political parties. We are asking her to stop. When you are romancing party leaders, how will the election be free? There is no way for a fair election. She should be changed so that we have free and fair elections in Ondo State.”
Administrative Secretary of INEC in Ondo State, Biodun Amosun, assured the protesters that their votes would count.
Amosun said allegations against the REC would be handled at the national headquarters of the electoral body.
“We have heard your demands the thing is being handled at the headquarters. It is not easy for INEC to do anything if you vote. Ensure you have a situation room where you collate results from the polling units.”
