By Damilola Origbemisuyi, Akure
Ahead of the Ondo State November 16 governorship election, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Organisation has accused the state government of denying them the use of Democracy Park for the flag-off of its campaign.
The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the campaign organization, Mr Ayo Fadaka, made this claims on Saturday saying that the campaign organization had applied for the use of the venue for the event slated for October 15.
However, Fadaka said Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration has decided to deny the party (PDP) the use of the Park. According to him, this was the first time that any administration would prosecute such a cheap and petty goal.
Fadaka said, “To say we did not anticipate this pedestrian action will only indicate that we have not taken deep cognizance of the indecorous approach of Governor Aiyedatiwa to governance.
“We recall that in years late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu was in power, not once was any political party denied use of public space that was a statesman, now Ondo State is unlucky to have a worse variant in its saddle, this degeneracy must be taken care of.
“We, however, declare that we are going to hold our Campaign Flagoff in Akure, as people from across the State and nation will grace the event; we regret whatever inconvenience our gathering may have and apologize in advance, however please note that the irresponsibility of the pedestrian government is the cause.
“We, however, wish to pointedly underscore the fact that once a fire is set, there is no hiding the flames. The PDP is set for this election, and we will win; no cheap, petty, and pedestrian attitude will stop that.”
In response, The State Director, Media and Publicity of the APC, Mr Steve Otaloro, described the allegation of the PDP as untrue and mischievous pointing out that Aiyedatiwa did not have direct dealings with the management of the park and could not stop anybody from using it.
Otaloro said, “This allegation is not only false but also mischievous. Governor Aiyedatiwa does not have direct dealings with the management of Democracy Park, and as such, he cannot unilaterally deny any individual or organisation access to the facility. The governor is committed to upholding the principles of fairness and justice, and he would not engage in petty politics.
“It’s essential to note that the use of public facilities like Democracy Park is guided by established rules and regulations. If the PDP has fulfilled all requirements, including payment and paperwork, there’s no basis for denial. We urge the PDP to verify their claims and provide evidence of payment and approval.”
According to him, the allegation was a desperate attempt to score cheap political points against the governor who is also the candidate of the APC in the forthcoming poll.
“We advise the PDP to focus on issue-based campaigning rather than spreading falsehoods and misinformation. The people of Ondo State deserve better,” he added.