Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo has asked residents of the state to remain calm as the opposition parties continue to call for the cancellation of results of Saturday’s presidential election.
Mr Akeredolu, on Tuesday, said that residents of Ondo state have no reason to succumb to the agitations of the members of the opposition party.
“We understand that some political parties are agitated but there is no reason for our people to succumb to agitations. I urge you all to remain calm,” the governor said in a statement issued by his spokesman, Richard Olatunde.
Mr Akeredolu’s statement was in response to the call made by members of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), demanding for the cancellation of the election results conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The opposition political parties, joined by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), have accused INEC of ‘manipulating’ the results of the election in alleged “connivance” with the All Progressive Congress (APC).
The parties are questioning why the electoral umpire has refused to electronically upload the results of Saturday’s exercise on its server (portal) despite the assurance it gave Nigerians before the election took place.
Speaking further, Mr Akeredolu asked the people of the state not to be caught in the issues already being agitated for by the opposition political parties.
He noted that the issues would be resolved among the parties while asking the residents of the state not to entertain fear but go about their normal daily activities.
“Don’t be caught in the web as the issues at hand are among political parties. The parties will be resolved as time goes on. Let us go about our daily activities without fear of intimidation,” the governor said.
He later saluted the people for turning out during Saturday’s elections and voting for the APC candidates from top to bottom.
While describing the people of the state as unique and distinct, Mr Akeredolu said that the voice of the people was unanimous and loud in choosing the candidates of the party across the board.
“I thank you all for your display of love and support for all candidates of the APC. The huge votes garnered by our party in this last election is an unequivocal statement of your acceptability and support for our government in the State and the party.
“Before the elections, I urged you all to rise above the frustrations at the fuel stations and ATMs and vote for the candidates of the APC. Your response was loud and heartwarming. We have shown that we are a people of immeasurable knowledge and faith. You are reliable and trustworthy,” he said.
According to him, “Your display of courage and resilience is commendable. Your stance and convictions on our collective struggles have been reflected in your choice and acceptability. We shall expend all efforts toward improving lives and developing our State. This march towards shared prosperity shall receive our utmost priority.
“Undoubtedly, this victory is yours. The gains shall fulfill your desirabilities and deepen your hope for a united and prosperous nation. We are thankful and honoured with your massive votes and turnout. You have written our names in gold and restored our glory as the home of progressives.”
The Governor, however, pleaded with the people of the state to turn out again in large numbers in the March 11 election and vote for the candidates of the APC again in the exercise.
