The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said it did not appoint the Vice-Chancellor, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Prof. Eyitope Ogunbodede, as Returning Officer for the Ondo governorship election.
On Friday, Festus Okoye, National Commissioner for Information, issued a statement on the speculation.
He said the reaction followed the comment by Oyo Governor and Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Campaign Council, Seyi Makinde.
Makinde alleged that Ogunbodede is a known crony of Ondo Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He spoke on Thursday in Akure, the state capital.
INEC said it is the sole responsibility of the commission to appoint a Returning Officer and does not share this responsibility with any individual, group or political party.
Okoye noted that the R.O. will report to the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ondo State on the date conveyed in his letter of appointment issued several days ago.
“The Commission is firmly focused to conduct a free, fair and peaceful election and implores all stakeholders to cooperate and play their own part in ensuring a peaceful election and not to engage in unhelpful speculation.”
