Ondo State’s gubernatorial election process was marred by violence on Saturday as an angry mob attacked the state’s Health Commissioner, Dr. Banji Ajaka. The incident occurred at Ugbo Ward 3 polling unit in Ilaje County [Local Government Area], according to local press.
Reports indicate that the mob accused Dr. Ajaka of attempting to tamper with the election results. The Nigerian media claim that tensions arose when opposition members demanded to see the result sheets for the primary election voting exercise. They allege that Dr. Ajaka, who was present at his hometown polling unit, was holding onto the result sheets, leading to accusations of foul play.
The situation escalated when the crowd confronted Dr. Ajaka. Details remain unclear, but it is confirmed that the Commissioner was assaulted by the mob. The Punch reported that Dr. Ajaka was “beaten to a point of unconsciousness.”
Dr. Ajaka confirmed the assault, stating he was “beaten” due to false accusations. “They accused me of withholding election results, and while trying to explain to them what happened, they just started beating me,” he said. Police intervened to disperse the mob and secure the polling station. No arrests have been reported at this time, but authorities are investigating the incident.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
