_…. urges voters to actively exercise their civic rights_
Sadiat Isiaka
Ahead of the forthcoming Local governments election slated for February 22, 2025, the Chairman, Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSSIEC, Barr. Hashim Akintude Abioye has again assured residents of the State of free, fair and credible election in the State.
The local government electoral umpire posited that the Commission is fully prepared to conduct the Election as necessary activities that will lead to the smooth conduct of the election have put in place.
Barr. Abioye stated this in Osogbo, the State Capital, at the 44th Edition of a monthly programme, “The Frontliners’, organised by League of Veterans Journalists in Osun State.
He expressed gratitude to veteran journalists and the media organisations for their support and cooperation.
Addressing the issue of litigation, OSSIEC Chairman acknowledged that elections often involve legal disputes and revealed that OSSIEC has recorded the highest number of litigations in its history. He assured stakeholders that all legal challenges had been resolved, paving way for the commission to conduct elections in full compliance with constitutional provisions.
Fielding questions from the newsmen, Abioye highlighted several achievements under his leadership, stating that OSSIEC had made remarkable strides in operational efficiency, breaking long-standing barriers in election administration.
According to him, “Among the key advancements are the introduction of comprehensive election guidelines, online recruitment of ad-hoc staff, electoral officers, and observers, as well as timely engagement with political parties to ensure inclusivity.
“Additionally, the commission had organized two seminars and orientation programmes aimed at enhancing electoral credibility,” he said.
Barrister Abioye urged voters to actively participate in the electoral process, emphasizing their civic responsibility to elect credible representatives. He noted that voter education remains a priority, with programmes such as “Akitiyan OSSIEC” and “OSSIEC Half Hour” and others orientation programmes set to be aired on various radio and television stations across Osun State.
The OSSIEC Chairman reassured public that adequate arrangements had been made to safeguard voters and electoral officers, emphasizing that there is no cause for alarm, as security agencies would be deployed to ensure a peaceful election.
While speaking, the Chairman of the event, Pastor Emmanuel Agboola, commended OSSIEC Chairman for his leadership style, expressing confidence in the commission’s ability to conduct a transparent electoral process. He as well Commended Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) for their efforts in strengthening democracy in Osun State.
In his own words, the Acting Chairman, Osun State League of Veteran Journalists, Prince Adeyeye Oyedokun harped on the importance of Journalists to the Society, saying media has a critical role to play in sustaining democracy in Nigeria.
