Ondo 2020: OAU VC not returning officer, INEC replies PDP

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has reacted to comments by the opposition party, PDP, rejecting the Chief Returning Officer for Saturday’s governorship election in Ondo State, Eyitope Ogunbode.

The PDP and the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, who also doubles as the chairman of the PDP National Campaign Council, had on Thursday stated that the polls may not be free and fair because of Mr Ogunbodede, who is the vice-chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).

The party alleged that Mr Ogunbodede is an ally to to the incumbent governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, candidate of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC).

Mr Akeredolu is seeking a second term in office against his deputy and candidate of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), Agboola Ajayi; the candidate of the PDP, Eyitayo Jegede, and 14 others.

In its reaction to the stance of the PDP, INEC in a statement signed by a spokesperson of the commission, Festus Okoye, said it will not be drawn into speculations relating to the performance of its constitutional and statutory functions. It also said Mr Ogunbodede has not been appointed the returning officer of the election.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Returning Officer for the Ondo Governorship election is not from Ondo State and not from the University mentioned in the said press conference.

“While the Commission will not be drawn into speculations relating to the performance of its constitutional and statutory functions, it is imperative to set the records straight for the benefit of the people of Ondo State and the integrity of the electoral process.

“It is the sole responsibility of the Commission to appoint a Returning Officer for the Ondo Governorship election and does not share this responsibility with any individual, group or Political Party.”