Ondo warns against vandalism of campaign billboards

The Ondo State Government has condemned the alleged vandalism of political campaign materials across the state, warning that those involved will be identified and prosecuted.

Senior Special Assistant to the Ondo Governor on Signage & Advertisement, Yomi Oyekan, in a statement on Monday, accused some political actors of deliberately destroying campaign materials belonging to rival aspirants.

“It has come to the attention of the Ondo State Signage and Advertisement Agency that certain political players have resorted to the deliberate vandalism and destruction of campaign materials belonging to other aspirants,” the statement read.

The agency described the development as a criminal act and a threat to democratic principles.

This act is not only condemnable but constitutes a grave criminal offence. It is a direct assault on the principles of democracy, fair competition, and the rule of law,” it stated.

The government warned that it had intelligence on those involved and had alerted security agencies to take action.

“Let it be clearly stated that we are not unaware of these actions. We have credible intelligence on those involved, and the appropriate security agencies have been duly notified to take necessary action,” the statement added.

It stressed that perpetrators and their sponsors would face the full weight of the law.

“Perpetrators and their sponsors will be identified, investigated, and brought to justice without hesitation,” the agency said

The state government also reiterated its commitment to ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of political activities in the state.

“The administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa remains firmly committed to ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants, irrespective of political affiliation,” the statement noted.

It added that all candidates have the right to campaign freely without intimidation or harassment.

“Every candidate has the constitutional right to campaign freely and lawfully without fear of intimidation, harassment, or destruction of property,” it said.

The agency further warned political actors against resorting to violence or unlawful conduct, urging them to adopt issue-based campaigns.

This barbaric act will not be condoned under this government. We urge all political actors and their supporters to conduct themselves with decorum, respect the law, and embrace issue-based campaigns rather than resorting to criminality,” the statement read.

It concluded with a warning that the state would not tolerate political violence.

“Ondo State will not be a theatre for political violence or desperation,” it added.