The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government of denying them access to Democracy Park in Akure for their upcoming campaign kick-off.
According to the PDP, they applied for the venue to hold their event on October 15, 2024, but were later refused permission by the state government.
In a statement released on Saturday by Mr. Ayo Fadaka, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity for the PDP Campaign Organisation, the party expressed its disappointment, claiming this was the first time a government had blocked access to the park for political events.
Fadaka remarked, “We applied for the use of Democracy Park, a venue traditionally used for such events, but the Aiyedatiwa administration has denied our request, an unprecedented act of political pettiness.”
In response, Mr. Steve Otaloro, Director of Media and Publicity for the state, dismissed the allegation as “false and mischievous,” stating that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had no direct involvement in the park’s management. He emphasized that access to the park is governed by established rules, and if the PDP had met all requirements, there would be no reason for denial.
Otaloro added, “The governor upholds fairness and justice and would not engage in such trivial politics. If the PDP has met all obligations, including payment and paperwork, they should provide evidence.”
Despite the alleged denial, the PDP stated that they will proceed with their campaign as planned next week.
