- Former Army General Praises High Voter Turnout and Orderly Election Conduct
- Bajowa Calls for Acceptance of Election Outcome by All Parties
Retired Maj.-Gen. Olu Bajowa has praised the peaceful conduct and high voter turnout during the Ondo State governorship election, saying it signals the growing strength of democracy in Nigeria.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) after casting his vote at Unit 6, Ward 1, Igbotako, Okitipupa Local Government Area on Saturday, Bajowa, the Jagunmolu of Ikaleland, expressed satisfaction with the election’s smooth process.
Bajowa described the election as “impressive” with a large number of voters turning out and no reports of ballot box snatching or election-related violence. He commended the efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for ensuring a peaceful atmosphere.
“This election has been peaceful and impressive with no incidents of violence or ballot box snatching,” Bajowa remarked. “The voter turnout was massive, and the orderliness was commendable. INEC staff were punctual, and security was well-managed. These are all signs that democracy is growing stronger in Nigeria.”
Bajowa also noted that Nigerians are increasingly understanding the importance of their civic duties and the power of their vote in electing good leadership.
“The people now recognize what democracy is all about, and their understanding of their responsibility to elect good leaders is evident,” he said. “With what I have witnessed today, I believe democracy is taking a firm hold in Nigeria.”
However, Bajowa stressed the importance of accepting the election results, urging both the winning and losing parties to respect the outcome. He emphasized that there would always be another opportunity to contest.
“In any contest, there is always a winner and a loser,” he said. “The winner must be magnanimous in victory, and the loser must understand that there will be another chance.”
