Jimi Odimayo, the lawmaker representing Irele/Okitipupa Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its efforts in conducting a peaceful governorship election in Ondo State on Saturday.

After voting at his Legumare Unit 001, Anglican Primary School, Ward 3, in Irele Local Government Area, Odimayo expressed satisfaction with the seamless process. He commended the electorate for their enthusiastic participation and the smooth functioning of the election technology.

“So far, it has been peaceful, and our people are conducting themselves well. They are very enthusiastic about the election. Let me commend INEC. Based on what I witnessed today, the commission has improved tremendously. The process was seamless—it took just about two minutes for the BVAS machine to accredit me before voting,” he said.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Population highlighted the impressive voter turnout, which he noted surpassed that of the 2023 general election.

He expressed confidence in his party’s prospects, stating, “We are going to win because we have worked for it. We are looking at a massive victory for the APC because we don’t have any challenges at all. This election is going to be a pointer to what to expect in 2027, and we want to assure our President, Bola Tinubu, that Ondo State is a home for massive votes.”

While commending the current process, Odimayo acknowledged that there is still room for improvement in future elections.

The election has continued to receive commendations for its peaceful conduct as voters across the state await the official results.

During the Ondo State governorship election on Saturday, the state Police Command intensified efforts to enforce the election day movement restriction.

This led to the seizure of numerous motorcycles and vehicles from individuals who violated the directive.

The operation, which was conducted across the state, focused particularly on Akure, the state capital. Offenders were apprehended at checkpoints, including a significant interception along Oyemekun Road near ‘A’ Division in Akure, where armed police officers dismissed excuses from violators.

READ MORE: #OndoDecides2024: BVAS Challenges Mar Ondo State Election

One of the affected individuals, identified as Dejo, narrated his experience to our correspondence. He said, “My motorcycle has been impounded in the last four hours. I came from Igoba to vote at Champion Junction. I showed them my voter’s card, yet the police wouldn’t allow me to go on my motorcycle. More than 60 motorcycles and 10 vehicles are being impounded here. You can count them. Help me beg them.”

Reacting to the situation, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Funmi Odunlami, explained that the action was necessary to maintain peace during the election.

“Those people you observed contravened the restriction order, and the right thing was done by the operatives that impounded those vehicles and motorcycles. The restriction was announced earlier. It will only be for the period of restriction,” she stated.

This enforcement measure underscores the commitment of the Ondo State Police Command to ensuring a peaceful election process, despite concerns raised by affected individuals.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, participated in the Ondo State Governorship election on Saturday, describing the process as peaceful and professional.

Tunji-Ojo exercised his franchise at Unit 17, Ward 3 in Okeagbe, Akoko North West Local Government Area of Ondo State. Sharing his experience on his official X page, the Minister posted photos showcasing his accreditation and voting process.

“At exactly 11:34 a.m., I cast my vote at Unit 17, Ward 3, Okeagbe, Akoko North West Local Government Area of Ondo State, in the #Ondo2024 Governorship Election. It’s been a peaceful election with officials displaying high-level professionalism coupled with an encouraging turnout of voters,” he wrote.

READ MORE: Trump Taps 27-Year-Old Karoline Leavitt As New White House Spokesperson

The ongoing election has drawn praise from participants and observers alike for its smooth conduct. However, as voting continues, some candidates have raised concerns about specific issues.

Tunji-Ojo’s statement reflects the optimism surrounding the conduct of the election, as many voters expressed satisfaction with the process, which was reportedly characterized by transparency and orderliness.

This development underscores the importance of peaceful participation in the electoral process, as Ondo citizens eagerly await the announcement of results.