Governor Abiodun Leads by Example, Casts Vote in Peaceful Remo Bye-Election

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, demonstrated statesmanship and civic responsibility on Saturday by casting his vote during the Remo Federal Constituency bye-election. The exercise, held at Polling Unit 002, Ita Osanyin, Ward 3, Iperu in Ikenne Local Government Area, saw the Governor present himself for accreditation by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) before recording his ballot at precisely 10:33am.

The atmosphere at the polling unit was notably calm and orderly, with a substantial turnout of voters who arrived early to exercise their civic rights. INEC members ensured a seamless voting process, while a heavy presence of security personnel—including police and civil defence operatives—maintained law and order, reflecting the state’s commitment to a credible and peaceful election.

Governor Abiodun’s participation is widely regarded as a reaffirmation of his commitment to free and fair elections. In his remarks after voting, he commended Ogun State residents for their impressive turnout and the disciplined conduct observed across polling centres. “I want to thank the good people of Ogun State who have come out in their numbers to express themselves through the ballots. This is a vote of confidence in our democracy,” the Governor stated.

Security was at its highest level, with movement restrictions implemented across Sagamu, Ikenne, and Remo North local governments from midnight to 4pm. The police deployed additional operatives and urged citizens to avoid any acts of vote-buying or disturbance, promising swift penalties for any infractions. Reports from observers at multiple polling units described the voting process as smooth and well-organized, with materials arriving early and queues forming before dawn.

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The Remo Federal Constituency bye-election was necessitated by the death of Adewunmi Onanuga, the former Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, in January 2025. The contest is seen as a test of party strength and governance credentials, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) fielding strong candidates. The APC’s Princess Adesola Elegbeji and PDP’s Bolarinwa Oluwole are among the contenders vying to fill the vacant seat, a position of significant strategic importance for the parties and the constituency.

Polling will close at 2:30pm, after which votes will be counted in the presence of voters and party agents. INEC has assured residents of ongoing transparency and diligence throughout the electoral process. The general mood in Remo and its environs reveals a populace eager to consolidate democracy and continue on a path of credible representation.

Governor Abiodun’s active involvement sends a powerful message of leadership and encouragement, underscoring the importance of participation and peaceful conduct in deepening Nigeria’s democratic culture.