Voters Offered Rice, Fertilizer, Cassava, Other Incentives as Ondo Election Nears

As the Ondo State gubernatorial election nears, reports suggest politicians are offering rice, fertilizer, cassava, and cash to encourage support from voters.

A democracy based non-governmental organization, Yiaga Africa, made the revelation in a report released on Friday during a Peace Accord signing attended by various political parties and candidates.

According to findings by the organisation, its Long Term Observers had noted instances of voter inducement in several regions, including Akure South, Ese-Odo, Ifedore, Irele, Ondo East, Ose, and Owo local government areas. Yiaga’s pre-election report said these inducements were carried out during campaign events in these communities.

The report specifically mentioned leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), claiming that they distributed fertilizers, rice, cassava, and maize to influential community leaders. These local leaders were reportedly given the responsibility of distributing these items among residents in their communities, possibly to gather support for APC candidates.

Yiaga Africa, therefore called on all political players to avoid actions that could undermine a free and fair election process. The group stressed the importance of a clean electoral process, free from manipulation and undue influence.

“As the election approaches, tensions between political parties are escalating, with different sides trading accusations and warnings.

“The situation underscores the need for vigilance and peaceful conduct from all stakeholders involved. Security agencies should take proactive measures to mitigate these risks.

“Ensuring the safety of voters, election officials, and all other participants is paramount to upholding the integrity of the electoral process. Preventive measures must be prioritized to avert violence and ensure a peaceful election,” the report read.

The 2024 Ondo gubernatorial election is set for November 16, with incumbent APC governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa seeking a full term. He faces competition from former deputy governor Agboola Ajayi of the PDP, along with 15 other candidates from various parties.