The elections, slated for November 16th, 2024, provide a critical opportunity for voters to advocate for leaders who recognize housing as a key driver of economic development and social progress.

In a statement released on Friday by HDAN’s Executive Director, Festus Adebayo, the organization emphasized the importance of electing leaders who are committed to addressing the state’s housing deficit. “Now is the time for electorates to demand housing as a priority from politicians seeking their votes,” Adebayo stated. “Housing is not just a fundamental human right but also a crucial contributor to economic growth. It creates jobs, stimulates local industries, and improves living standards for all.”

Adebayo urged politicians to incorporate housing into their manifestos and constituency projects, emphasizing its potential to tackle unemployment and boost the economy. “When leaders focus on housing, they are not only addressing shelter needs but also unlocking opportunities for employment, especially for our youth,” he added.

Highlighting the pivotal role of governance in addressing housing challenges, Adebayo called on the Ondo State legislature and government to implement policies that prioritize affordable housing. “The importance of housing cannot be overstated. It is essential for individual dignity and national development,” he remarked.

HDAN also encouraged Ondo State voters to critically assess the governorship candidates’ manifestos and choose leaders with clear, actionable plans for housing and urban development. The list of candidates, spanning various political parties, presents voters with diverse options to evaluate.

The organization reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for better housing policies across Nigeria and Africa at large, urging citizens to see housing as a collective priority and use their votes to demand meaningful change.

As Ondo State prepares for the polls, the focus on housing could redefine the trajectory of the state’s development and set a precedent for prioritizing this vital sector across Nigeria.

HDAN is a research-driven, non-profit, volunteer, and non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting affordable housing across Africa. With a membership of over 5,000 professionals spanning various disciplines within the housing and construction industry, HDAN strives to advance sustainable housing solutions throughout the continent

The post Vote for Housing-Friendly Governorship Candidates, HDAN Urges Electorate in Ondo appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

In its Pre-election Press Statement on the 2024 Ondo State Governorship Election, Yiaga Africa reported that political parties and candidates have been using cash gifts and food items to win voter support as election day nears, a practice it warned could undermine the electoral process and diminish public trust in democracy.

“Yiaga Africa’s Long-Term Observers (LTOs) noted instances of voter inducement during campaign activities by both the APC and PDP,” the organization stated. “Observers documented cash gifts ranging from N2,000 to N5,000 distributed to voters across 14 local government areas: Odigbo, Idanre, Akoko North East, Irele, Ilaje, Okitipupa, Owo, Akoko South West, Ondo East, Ese-Odo, Ifedore, Akoko South East, Akoko North West, and Akure South.”

The election monitor voiced concerns that these inducement strategies may persist on election day, turning polling stations into potential hubs for vote-buying and compromising the fairness of the election. Yiaga also highlighted rising tensions, with political actors displaying heightened rhetoric, aggressive campaigning, and personal attacks that could lead to a volatile election atmosphere.

On INEC’s preparations, Yiaga acknowledged efforts to distribute sensitive materials but urged improved communication with transport companies and logistics unions to ensure efficiency on election day.

In a call to action, Yiaga Africa encouraged all stakeholders to work collaboratively, making the Ondo State election a benchmark for peaceful and credible elections. It urged INEC to ensure accessible voting processes for persons with disabilities, providing necessary assistive materials and addressing potential challenges transparently to build public confidence.

The post Ondo Election: Political Parties Engage in Voter Inducement with Cash and Materials, Says Yiaga appeared first on Housing TV Africa.