The Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has raised serious allegations against the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government, claiming they were denied access to a venue for their campaign kickoff ahead of the November 16 gubernatorial election. The PDP expressed their frustration after applying to use the popular Democracy Park in Akure, the state capital, only to be turned down by the state government.

In a statement released on Saturday, Ayo Fadaka, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity for the PDP Campaign Organisation, detailed their grievances. The statement, titled “Our campaign flag-off and Aiyedatiwa’s pettiness,” emphasized the party’s resolve to proceed with their campaign, scheduled for October 15, 2024, despite the setback.

“We wish to inform the people of Ondo State that our campaign flag-off is set for October 15, 2024. We applied for the use of Democracy Park, the traditional venue for such events, but the Aiyedatiwa administration has denied us this opportunity. This marks a troubling first, where any government would pursue such a petty agenda,” the statement read.

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The PDP went on to criticize Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s governance style, contrasting it with that of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, who, they claimed, never barred political parties from using public spaces. The party insisted they would hold their campaign event in Akure, expecting attendance from supporters across the state and beyond. They acknowledged potential inconveniences caused by their gathering but attributed it to the government’s actions.

In response, Steve Otaloro, the state Director of Media and Publicity, refuted the PDP’s claims, labeling them as misleading and mischievous. He clarified that Governor Aiyedatiwa has no direct authority over the management of Democracy Park and cannot unilaterally deny access to any group.

“This allegation is entirely false and intended to mislead the public. Governor Aiyedatiwa does not manage Democracy Park and cannot deny anyone access to it. He is committed to fairness and would never engage in petty politics,” Otaloro stated.

He emphasized that the use of public facilities, such as Democracy Park, is regulated by established rules. If the PDP had met all necessary requirements, including payment and documentation, there would be no reason for denial. Otaloro urged the PDP to substantiate their claims with proof.

Describing the PDP’s allegations as a desperate ploy for political gain, he reaffirmed the Aiyedatiwa administration’s dedication to good governance and transparency. “We will not be distracted by baseless accusations and will continue focusing on delivering the benefits of democracy to the people of Ondo State,” he concluded.