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Published on 2024-02-29 12:20:08
The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in Ondo State is expressing concern over the destruction of its aspirants’ billboards and is calling on security operatives to take action against those responsible. The State Publicity Secretary of NNPP, Wasiu Sanusi, emphasized the need to address this issue promptly to prevent it from escalating into a crisis.
According to Sanusi, there has been a deliberate effort by a faceless group to destroy the billboards of NNPP governorship aspirants, possibly to hinder the party’s chances of unseating the ruling party in the state. With the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) scheduling off-cycle governorship elections in Ondo State for November 16, 2024, the stakes are high for political parties and their aspirants.
The tenure of the current Governor of Ondo State is set to end on February 23, 2025, as stated by INEC. The electoral body has outlined the timeline for the gubernatorial election, in line with the constitutional provisions governing the election of public office holders. Ondo State is among eight states in Nigeria where governorship elections are held outside the general elections cycle due to previous legal disputes.
INEC has scheduled the party primaries to take place from April 6 to April 27, 2024, with the deadline for submitting the list of nominated candidates set for May 20, 2024. As the main opposition party in Ondo State, NNPP is keen on ensuring a level playing field for its aspirants and is concerned that the destruction of billboards could lead to a crisis that would undermine the electoral process.
Sanusi highlighted the need for security operatives to intervene and prevent further destruction of NNPP aspirants’ billboards. The party acknowledges that failing to address this issue could incite other party members to engage in similar acts of vandalism, potentially disrupting the peace and fairness of the upcoming election.
While NNPP initially hesitated to react to the destruction of billboards, the party recognizes the importance of maintaining a peaceful electoral environment. By urging security agencies to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the destruction, NNPP aims to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process in Ondo State.
As political tensions rise ahead of the governorship elections in Ondo State, it is crucial for all stakeholders to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure a fair and transparent electoral process. The appeal by NNPP for security intervention underscores the party’s commitment to democratic norms and the rule of law. It is essential for security operatives to act swiftly and decisively to address any threats to the electoral process and prevent disruptions that could jeopardize the credibility of the upcoming elections.
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