By Jubril Bada

The Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) candidate for the forthcoming Ondo State gubernatorial election slated for November 16, Dr. Abbas Mimiko, has condemned the People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) calls for the removal of the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola.

Mimiko criticised the PDP leaders, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the party’s gubernatorial candidate, Agboola Ajayi, for demanding Babalola’s transfer, describing their stance as unfounded and unnecessary.

The PDP argued that Babalola, being from Ondo State, could not conduct the election impartially. During a debate aired on Channels TV, PDP candidate Agboola Ajayi reiterated this call, expressing concerns over potential bias.

In an interview with The Hope, Mimiko described Babalola as a figure of integrity and professionalism, reflecting on her performance during the party primaries.

He said, “I can vouch for her professionalism. She displayed discipline and impartiality during the primaries, ensuring a fair process.”

Mimiko further criticised what he termed the gender bias in the PDP’s stance, stating, “Had it been a man in her position, these baseless allegations might not have arisen. It is society’s duty to protect women of integrity like her, not to undermine them without evidence.”

He concluded by affirming his confidence in Babalola’s capacity to conduct a credible election, dismissing the PDP’s accusations as without merit.