The Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) on Saturday conducted local government elections across polling units in the 18 local government areas of the state.
The exercise, which began early in some parts of the state, recorded a low turnout of voters in some areas visited by our correspondent.
There was total compliance with the restriction order, as security operatives in the state ensured that some drivers were stranded on the road, as they were not allowed to pass through certain towns and villages within the state.
About 16 political parties participated in the local government elections, which are expected to produce new chairmen and councillors for grassroots governance.
In some areas visited by our correspondent, including Ward 4, Unit 27 at St. Stephen Primary School in Ijomu, and Ward 9, Unit 3 at St. Paul Primary School, Oba Ile, in Akure South and Akure North local government areas, the conduct was peaceful.
Speaking with newsmen at one of the polling units, an electoral officer disclosed that out of the 738 registered voters in the unit, less than 20 voters had cast their votes.
She noted that most residents did not come out to vote but expressed hope that some voters would still come out to exercise their rights.
Meanwhile, the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, cast his vote in his country home despite the low voter turnout and deserted streets, describing the election as a step towards enhancing grassroots development.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to the effective operation of the local government system in the state in line with the law.
Aiyedatiwa, who cast his vote at Polling Unit 5, Ugbo Ward 4, in Ilaje Local Government Area, commended the electoral process.
After casting his ballot, the governor spoke to journalists, commending ODIEC for the seamless conduct of the poll and appreciating the people of the state for their participation.
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At Ward 7, Unit 4, Ojumu House Arakale, where the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, cast his vote, he expressed satisfaction with the election, noting that it had been peaceful.
He said, “The turnout could be better, but this is something that is always associated with local government elections across the country. So far, so good.”
“I think this is a good outing for Ondo State in conducting local government elections and contributing to the proclamation of the President for the enthronement of local government autonomy.”
He added that reports from other areas had been encouraging, and the election had remained peaceful.
