In a recent outburst that has stirred the political landscape of Ondo State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vehemently criticized the governorship primary election conducted by the All Progressives Congress (APC), labeling it as a “mockery of democracy.” This condemnation comes amidst allegations of significant procedural flaws and disruptions that allegedly plagued the APC’s primary processes.
Non-conduct of Elections in Scheduled Centers
Kennedy Ikantu Peretei, the PDP State Publicity Secretary, issued a statement asserting that in numerous centers where the election was scheduled to take place, no actual voting occurred. This claim raises profound concerns about the inclusiveness and validity of the electoral process, suggesting a possible disenfranchisement of a portion of the electorate which could have a bearing on the overall fairness of the primaries.
Reports of Violence and Electoral Manipulation
The primary election was further marred by reported incidents of violence, particularly noted in Akure South and Okitipupa Local Government Areas. Allegations include unchecked activities of political thugs, who reportedly disrupted the polling process. Such disruptions not only undermine the electoral process but also pose serious risks to the safety and security of voters and undermine public confidence in the electoral outcomes.
APC’s Reaction and Remedial Measures
In a response to these allegations and following what was termed a “validated report” of electoral disruptions, the APC announced an extension of the primary election. Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State, the Chairman of the primary election committee, declared that the election would continue in 13 wards within the Okitipupa Local Government Area. This decision indicates an acknowledgment of the issues and represents an attempt by the APC to rectify the noted irregularities.
Commitment to Collating Results Post-Election
Governor Ododo also confirmed that the collation of results would begin immediately after the conclusion of the extended voting process. This move is intended to expedite the finalization of the primary election results, aiming to restore integrity and public trust in the process. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen, as the PDP and other observers continue to scrutinize the APC’s actions closely.
Recurrence of Electoral Issues in APC Primaries
This isn’t the first instance where APC’s primary processes have been embroiled in controversy. Similar procedural and transparency issues were reported four years ago during the primaries overseen by then-Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State. The absence of clear delegate lists and the uncertainty about the primary method (Direct or Indirect) had previously led to confusion and allegations of manipulation. These recurring issues suggest a pattern that might reflect deeper systemic problems within the APC’s organizational structure and electoral strategies.
Financial Stakes and Organizational Questions
The PDP’s statement also highlighted the financial aspect of the primaries, noting that the APC’s national headquarters had amassed a considerable sum from aspirants, which reportedly amounted to N830 million. This financial involvement raises questions about the motivations behind the electoral process and whether financial gains are being prioritized over democratic fairness.
Critique of APC’s Democratic Credentials
The controversies surrounding the APC governorship primary have provided the PDP with grounds to question the democratic credentials of the APC. The PDP has argued that if the APC cannot conduct a transparent and fair primary for its members, its ability to govern a diverse and complex state like Ondo is also in doubt. This situation has given the PDP an opportunity to contrast its own electoral processes, which it claims will be conducted with higher standards of transparency and fairness.
PDP’s Promised Response: A Benchmark for Democracy
In response to the controversies, the PDP has announced plans for its own governorship primary election, promising a process that will be transparent and inclusive, with live media coverage and monitoring by non-governmental organizations. This approach not only sets a benchmark for electoral integrity but also serves as a strategic move to position the PDP as a more reliable and democratic alternative to the APC in the eyes of the electorate.
Erosion of Public Confidence
The allegations and the subsequent controversy surrounding the APC primary elections in Ondo State have potentially serious implications for public trust in electoral processes. When electoral irregularities occur, especially within a major political party’s primary, it risks undermining public confidence not only in the party’s internal democracy but also in the broader electoral system under which they operate. This erosion of trust can lead to decreased voter turnout and increased voter apathy, which are detrimental to the health of a democratic society.
Need for Electoral Reform
The repeated instances of electoral malpractice call attention to the urgent need for comprehensive electoral reform in Nigeria. The issues highlighted by the PDP in the APC’s primary process underscore the necessity for stricter regulatory frameworks, enhanced transparency measures, and stronger enforcement of electoral laws to ensure that similar problems are minimized in future elections.
PDP’s Strategic Positioning and Public Perception
The PDP is strategically using these controversies to position itself as a paragon of democratic values and responsible governance. By promising a transparent and fair primary, the PDP aims to distinguish itself from the APC’s tarnished process, potentially attracting voters who are disillusioned with the latter’s handling of internal elections. This move could enhance the PDP’s image and credibility among the electorate, making it a more appealing choice in the upcoming general elections.
Media Coverage and Public Engagement
The promise of live media coverage and the involvement of non-governmental organizations in monitoring the PDP’s primary elections are significant. These actions not only ensure that the process is kept honest and transparent but also engage the public and media in a way that holds the party accountable. This level of transparency is likely to resonate well with a populace that is eager for change and tired of political maneuvering that shrouds electoral processes in secrecy.
Impact on Upcoming General Elections
The outcome and handling of these primary elections are likely to have a profound impact on the general elections in Ondo State. If the APC is perceived as corrupt or incapable of managing its internal affairs, it may lose ground to the PDP or other parties that can present themselves as viable alternatives. Conversely, if the PDP manages to conduct its primary efficiently and transparently, it could capitalize on the APC’s failures to bolster its campaign and possibly secure electoral victories.
Long-Term Political Realignments
The current controversies may also trigger longer-term political realignments within Ondo State. Disaffected members of the APC may choose to defect to the PDP or other parties, altering the political landscape significantly. Such shifts could lead to new alliances and coalitions, potentially changing the governance dynamics of Ondo State and possibly influencing national political equations as well.
A Pivotal Moment for Democracy in Ondo State
The allegations against the APC’s handling of the Ondo State governorship primary represent a critical juncture for democracy in the region. How these issues are addressed will not only determine the immediate political future of Ondo State but also set precedents for how electoral integrity is treated across Nigeria. The PDP’s response, emphasizing transparency and engagement, offers a hopeful contrast and suggests a potential shift towards more accountable governance. As the situation unfolds, it will be crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the principles of democracy and work towards restoring public confidence in the electoral process.
This narrative underscores the importance of transparency and integrity in the electoral process, fundamental pillars that ensure the functioning of a healthy democratic system. The ongoing developments in Ondo State will serve as a litmus test for the commitment of Nigeria’s political parties to these democratic principles.
