By Rotimi Ojomoyela
ADO-EKITI — Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has called for the release of members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) allegedly detained in Ekiti State ahead of the June 20 governorship election.
Speaking at a PDP rally in Ado-Ekiti, the senator said democracy thrives when political parties compete based on their programmes and ideas rather than through actions that could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
The PDP had earlier alleged that some of its members were arrested under circumstances it described as politically motivated. The All Progressives Congress (APC), however, denied the allegation, maintaining that it does not require any form of manipulation to win elections.
Akpoti-Uduaghan urged authorities to ensure that all actions taken before the election are guided by fairness and respect for democratic principles.
“I believe politics should be such that candidates campaign on their manifestoes and allow the public to assess their ideas and programmes,” she said.
She also expressed confidence that the June 20 governorship election would be conducted in a free, fair and credible manner.
On concerns about Nigeria evolving into a one-party state following defections by politicians to the ruling party, the senator said she did not share such fears.
According to her, democracy remains competitive, and political parties should continue to strengthen their structures and engage citizens through lawful political activities.
“I don’t believe Nigeria is moving towards a one-party state. Political parties must continue to organise and remain active in the democratic process,” she said.
The lawmaker also called for politics to be conducted without violence, intimidation, harassment or undue pressure, stressing that voters should be allowed to choose their preferred candidates freely.
She further expressed support for the PDP governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Dr. Wole Oluyede, urging residents to consider the party’s programme and vision during the election.
In his remarks, Oluyede said the election should provide voters with the opportunity to assess candidates based on their records and plans for the state.
He also appealed for a level playing field and urged stakeholders to ensure that the electoral process reflects the will of the people.
Among those present at the event were the Director-General of the Campaign Council, Chief Makanjuola Ogundipe; former PDP governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Bisi Kolawole; former Senator Duro Fasuyi; former Acting Governor and former Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Tunji Odeyemi; PDP National Women Leader, Professor Adenike Ogunseye; and former Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Kola Oluwawole, among others.
