Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure fairness and impartiality in the forthcoming Ondo gubernatorial election, scheduled for November 16, 2024. Speaking on Tuesday at the flag-off of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) campaign in Akure, Makinde stressed the need for INEC to provide a level playing field for all candidates and political parties.

During the event, Makinde urged INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, to remove the current Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ondo State, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, due to her ties to the state. According to him, replacing the REC would foster transparency and avoid any suspicion of bias.

“I have a message for the INEC Chairman, Prof Yakubu Mahmood. You must remove the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ondo State, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, because she is from Ondo State. What you did in the past Edo election cannot be replicated here in Ondo. We will protest until she is removed,” Makinde declared.
He further emphasized that the PDP is not afraid of a fair contest, stating, “Bring another REC that would be fair and allow a level playing field. We, as PDP, are not afraid of a fair contest. Remove her, otherwise, we will continue to protest.”

Makinde criticized INEC’s handling of the recent Edo State election and vowed that the PDP would not allow a similar outcome in Ondo. He expressed confidence in his party’s prospects, urging supporters to engage in grassroots mobilization.

“This rally is the beginning of the victory party for the PDP in Ondo State. Please go from ward to ward, house to house for the next three weeks to win souls for the PDP, and it shall be well with us,” he told the crowd, praising the large turnout at the event.

Makinde’s speech underscored the PDP’s determination to secure a fair election while warning INEC to avoid actions that could undermine the credibility of the process.