Amidst the preparation for Ondo Council polls, Tuyi Adekanmbi, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairmanship candidate for Akure South, has rejected the party’s decision to withdraw from Saturday’s local government election in Ondo State. Speaking on behalf of other disenchanted candidates in Akure, Adekanmbi described the party’s sudden withdrawal, announced just 72 hours before the polls, as a betrayal of trust and a disservice to democracy.
Adekanmbi, who also serves as the PDP Youth Leader in Akure South, strongly criticized the party’s leadership for failing to consult with the candidates.
“The decision to boycott the election is an infringement on our democratic rights and undermines the aspirations of Akure South residents, who support us with nearly 85 percent backing,” he stated.
He vowed to remain committed to the electoral process and assured supporters of continued updates on their next steps. “We thank the people of Akure for their unwavering support and urge them to remain resolute,” he said.
However, the PDP leadership defended its decision, citing strategic considerations. “We empathize with our candidates but believe this is in the party’s best interest,” said Kennedy Peretei, the party’s publicity secretary.
Amidst tension, Adekanmbi’s defiance has spotlighted cracks within the PDP, leaving Ondo State politics on edge ahead of the Saturday elections.
