As the Ondo State governorship election, slated for November 16, approaches, tensions are rising between the state chapters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC). The PDP has accused the APC of planning to instigate violence during the polls, a claim the ruling party strongly denies.

In a statement released by Ayo Fadaka, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity for the PDP Campaign Organisation, the party called on President Bola Tinubu to caution Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. The PDP claims that the governor is using state resources to compromise security in the lead-up to the election.

“We call on the Inspector General of Police, Director General of the Department of State Security, and Heads of other Security Agencies to take more interest in developments geared at causing security breaches in Ondo State as we move towards the election,” the statement warned, urging authorities to prevent potential violence before and during the election.

However, the APC has swiftly denied these accusations. The party’s Director of Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro, dismissed the PDP’s claims as baseless and an attempt to distract the governor from his duties. Otaloro stated, “The governor’s commitment to peace and security in Ondo State is unwavering. We reject any insinuation that he plans to cause a security breach.”

Otaloro further urged the PDP to focus on issue-based campaigning, rather than engaging in what he described as “scaremongering and unfounded allegations.” He reaffirmed Governor Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to ensuring a peaceful and fair election on November 16, as well as delivering on his campaign promises.

With less than two months until the election, the political landscape in Ondo State is heating up, with both parties trading accusations while urging peace and security for a smooth electoral process.