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PDP withdraws from Ondo LG elections, questions ODIEC’s integrity and credibility
DDM News

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has officially announced its withdrawal from the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, January 18, 2025.
Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered the decision, disclosed less than 24 hours before the polls, stems from the party’s expressed concerns over the credibility of the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC).
According to the PDP, ODIEC lacks the impartiality and transparency necessary to conduct a free, fair, and credible election.
Bakita Bello, the acting chairman of the PDP in Ondo State, made the announcement during a press briefing held in Akure.
He emphasized that the decision followed extensive consultations with party leaders, stakeholders, and its national leadership.
The PDP had initially shown strong interest in the polls, having fielded 15 chairmanship candidates and 131 councillorship candidates across various local government areas in the state.
However, recent developments have compelled the party to reconsider its participation.
In an official statement signed by the PDP’s Director of Media and Publicity, Leye Igbagbo, the party raised significant concerns about the neutrality and credibility of ODIEC.
The statement accused the electoral commission of engaging in practices that undermine the integrity of the electoral process, including alleged double standards in the conduct of pre-election activities.
“After thorough analysis and observations, it has become evident that ODIEC lacks the credibility, transparency, and impartiality required to conduct a trustworthy election,” the PDP’s statement read.
“Reports and observations point to a concerning pattern of favoritism and inconsistencies, making it impossible for us to participate in an election that appears predetermined.”
The PDP further justified its decision by reiterating its commitment to upholding democratic principles and maintaining the trust of its members and supporters.
According to Bello, withdrawing from the election was the best course of action to safeguard the party’s integrity and demonstrate its commitment to credible electoral processes.
The party also assured its supporters that it would remain actively engaged in advocating for electoral reforms in the state and beyond.
Reacting to the withdrawal, the Chairman of ODIEC, Joseph Aremo, expressed surprise and disappointment over the PDP’s decision.
Aremo noted that the PDP had actively participated in various programs and preparatory activities organized by the commission in the lead-up to the election.
These included workshops, stakeholder meetings, and other engagements designed to ensure a smooth electoral process.
“We are taken aback by this sudden decision from the PDP,” Aremo stated.
“They have been present at all our workshops and stakeholder meetings, and as recently as last month, they commended our efforts publicly.”
“This move is unexpected, especially since they had previously expressed confidence in ODIEC’s preparations.”
Despite the PDP’s withdrawal, ODIEC has reassured the public of its commitment to conducting a peaceful and credible election.
Aremo emphasized that the commission remains focused on delivering a transparent process and has urged other participating political parties to continue their preparations.
He also highlighted ongoing training sessions for election officials and stakeholders aimed at enhancing the credibility of the polls.
While the PDP’s decision has drawn mixed reactions, it underscores broader concerns about the integrity of electoral processes in Nigeria.
Analysts argue that such withdrawals, especially by major political parties like the PDP, highlight the need for strengthened institutions and frameworks to restore public trust in the democratic process.
The PDP’s withdrawal comes at a critical time when debates about electoral reforms and the independence of electoral commissions are dominating national discourse.
Many observers believe that the incident in Ondo State could serve as a wake-up call for the implementation of stricter measures to ensure transparency and accountability in the conduct of elections.
The PDP has assured its members and supporters that it will not relent in its pursuit of a fair and democratic electoral system.
“Our decision is not a retreat but a stand for justice and integrity,” the party concluded in its statement.
“We urge our supporters to remain calm and focused as we work toward ensuring better governance and democratic practices.”
As the election proceeds without the PDP, the focus now shifts to ODIEC and other participating parties to deliver a process that aligns with democratic standards.
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