The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC has declared incumbent Governor, Lucky Ayiedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress, APC winner of the Ondo State Governorship election.
Governor Ayiedatiwa polled a total of 366,781 votes to defeat his closest rival, Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP who polled 117,845 votes.
The Returning officer for the election, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi declared “that Lucky Aiyedatiwa having scored the highest number of lawful votes is hereby declared winner of the election and is returned elected”
Ayiedatiwa won by a landslide, defeating his contenders in all 18 local government area by a significant margin.
Meanwhile, the PDP says the outcome of the election is not the reflection of the will of the people but a result achieved by massive voter inducement
The APC however maintains that the election was won, fair and square dismissing allegations of vote buying manipulation by the opposition party.
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The ruling party insists the new mandate of the State Governor will not only add value to the state but deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.
Reacting to his victory, Governor Aiyedatiwa urged opposition parties to join hands with him and develop Ondo State together.
Aiyedatiwa in his acceptance speech, while promising to run an all-inclusive government, commended INEC, security agencies and all stakeholders involved for diligent job.
He also appreciated President Bola Tinubu for providing exemplary leadership and by also ensuring a level playing ground in the just concluded election.
Aiyedatiwa dedicated his victory firstly to God and secondly to the memory of his former boss, late Governor. Rotimi Akeredolu.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
