The Deputy Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State, Festus Akingbaso, has expressed concerns over the influx of thugs in the Idanre Local Government Area during the governorship election.
Akingbaso, also a House of Representatives member, shared his observations with journalists after casting his vote at Polling Unit 005, Oke Imikan.
While commending the turnout of voters and the security arrangements at polling stations, Akingbaso said the activities of thugs in the area posed a significant concern.
“I am impressed with the level of voter turnout and the peaceful conduct at the polling units so far, but the presence and activities of thugs in Idanre are worrisome,” Akingbaso said.
He called on security agencies to ensure the safety of voters and electoral officials in the local government, stressing the need to protect the integrity of the election process.
Residents in Idanre have also raised similar concerns, urging authorities to address the situation promptly to prevent disruptions. Security personnel are reportedly on alert, with reinforcements deployed to maintain peace in the area.
As voting progresses across Ondo State, stakeholders continue to emphasize the importance of a credible and peaceful election.
Akingbaso said, “The turnout of voters is not bad; the security situation is also not bad. I have not seen anything wrong at this moment. I also want to commend INEC because it has not performed badly so far.
“My advice to the voters is that whenever they cast their votes, they should wait behind and keep watch until the final result has been announced. If everything goes as planned, my party will win.”
Speaking on the alleged influx of suspected party thugs in Idanre, he said, “Information reaching me is that the majority of the villages are filled with thugs allegedly brought in by the APC. At the moment, all the villages are occupied with thugs. Villages like Ofosun, Omifunfun, and Allah are occupied.
“There is a place called Igbepo where suspected thugs are in their numbers in Idanre local government area. An incident happened in Ofosun where suspected thugs broke into the house of a party member to prevent him from voting. We were informed that there are plans not to allow people in the villages to vote.
“Since Friday, the APC has been alleged to have brought in suspected thugs.
“I have reported the matter to the DPO and DSS. To my expectation, the security agencies have not been able to do anything.”