Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has announced a public holiday for Friday, January 17, 2025, to allow residents to participate in the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, January 18.

The statement confirmed that all public servants in the state will enjoy a work-free day on Friday, January 17, to facilitate their movement to polling locations. "The Ondo State Government has declared Friday, January 17, 2025, a work-free day for public servants to enable them to travel to their various communities and vote in the local government elections," the statement read.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also urged stakeholders to ensure that the elections are conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful manner. Despite the withdrawal of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the race, citing concerns over the credibility of the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC), the electoral body has reassured the public of a transparent and inclusive election process.

To ensure the safety and security of voters, the Ondo State Police Command has imposed a restriction on vehicular and motorcycle movement from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 18. This measure is designed to maintain peace and order during the elections.

Residents of Ondo State are encouraged to make the most of the public holiday and participate in the democratic process.