The Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has claimed that the state government, led by the All Progressives Congress (APC), denied its members access to a venue intended for the launch of their campaign ahead of the governorship election set for November 16, 2024. The PDP alleges that it had formally requested to use Democracy Park, a well-known venue in Akure, for its campaign kickoff scheduled for October 15, but this request was reportedly turned down by the current administration. A statement from the PDP Campaign Organisation, delivered by Mr. Ayo Fadaka, criticized Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for what they termed petty governance, marking a departure from the previous administration’s approach that allowed all political parties equal access to public spaces.
Despite the denial, the PDP expressed its determination to proceed with its campaign kickoff in Akure, asserting the significance of this event to the party and its supporters statewide. The statement articulated a commitment to carry forward with the planned gathering, highlighting that such actions from the Aiyedatiwa administration reflect a declining state of governance in Ondo. The party drew comparisons to the administration of the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, asserting that under Akeredolu’s leadership, no political party faced restrictions in using public venues for their campaigns, a contrast which the PDP believes showcases the current government’s pettiness.
In emphasizing its readiness for the forthcoming election, the PDP reaffirmed its confidence in securing victory against the incumbent APC and reclaiming governance in Ondo State. The party’s leadership seemed undeterred by the refusal to use Democracy Park, suggesting that they anticipated challenges from the ruling party and were prepared to confront them. The implication was clear: the PDP is not merely reacting to the denial but is actively preparing for a broader electoral battle, aiming to galvanize support from its base and project a united front despite the state government’s actions.
The response from the APC came through state Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Steve Otaloro, who labeled the PDP’s allegations as both false and mischievous. He clarified that Governor Aiyedatiwa does not manage the operations of Democracy Park and, therefore, does not possess the authority to deny access to it. Otaloro emphasized that the governor is committed to fairness and does not engage in petty political maneuvering. He asserted that if the PDP had completed all necessary requirements for using the venue, such as payment and paperwork, then their claims about being denied access held no merit.
Otalo stressed that the usage of public facilities like Democracy Park is regulated by specific rules which must be adhered to, and suggested that the PDP should verify its claims, including providing proof of payment and permissions sought. Further, he characterized the PDP’s allegations as an attempt to gain political leverage against the governor who is also the APC’s candidate, urging them to focus on more substantive campaign issues rather than engaging in what he described as falsehoods and misrepresentations.
The exchange between the two parties encapsulates the broader political climate in Ondo State as it approaches the gubernatorial election. The PDP’s charges and the APC’s rebuttals highlight the tensions and rivalries inherent in political campaigns, particularly in a context as charged as that of the Ondo State governorship race. Ultimately, the PDP’s planned event is positioned not only as a campaign kickoff but also as a manifestation of its resilience and commitment to overcoming obstacles presented by a rival party that it accuses of undermining democratic practices in the state. The contention over the use of Democracy Park serves as a microcosm of the larger electoral strategies at play, where both parties aim to appeal to the electorate amidst allegations and counter-allegations that characterize the political landscape.
