Osun LG Election: February 22 Sacrosanct, Commission Insists

The Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSSIEC, has assured stakeholders of its readiness to conduct the upcoming local government elections in the state.

This is as OSSIEC also dismissed unfounded allegations that it was unprepared for the exercise come February, 22, 2025.

Speaking through a statement on Saturday, the OSSIEC Chairman, Barr. Hashim Abioye, revealed that the commission had adhered strictly to its timeline and schedule of activities.

“The amended notice and adjusted timetable issued by the Commission is a complete package and enough for any serious-minded political party to prepare for the elections,” said Abioye.

He added that OSSIEC had consistently carried out activities within the framework of the issued guidelines.

The Chairman highlighted key milestones in the commission’s preparations, including the appointment of Electoral Officers, EOs, and Assistant Electoral Officers, AEOs, across all local government areas.

“We even appointed special duties EOs and AEOs for efficiency and effectiveness,” he said, noting that retreats, seminars, and training sessions had been organised for all staff involved in the process.

Abioye further revealed the adoption of a groundbreaking online recruitment process for adhoc staff.

“This is paperless, the first in history, powered by our high-powered IT facilities. Imagine the cost, disorderliness, and security risks involved if we were to go physical. That has been eliminated now,” he stated.

The Chairman who assured the public of adequate logistical preparations, emphasised that campaigns by political parties were already underway.

“There have been adequate logistical preparations, and there won’t be any disappointment by God’s grace,” Abioye said.

He hinted at ongoing security measures, saying, “Election is sensitive, and one needs to be security conscious.”

To enhance public engagement, OSSIEC has launched a radio and television programme titled OSSIEC Half Hour, which serves as a platform for information dissemination and public orientation.

“We will expand the tentacles and frontiers of this outreach to reach a larger audience,” Abioye pledged.

The Chairman also disclosed plans for physical campaigns, consultations, and stakeholder engagements in the days leading to the election.

“That is our mandate, and we shall deliver. As far as we are concerned, the process has been smooth with no hitches, and so it will be till the end,” he asserted.

In response to doubts about the commission’s readiness, Abioye encouraged the public to verify OSSIEC’s activities via its website and other official platforms.

“Anybody can visit the Commission’s website, monitor the activities, and put my words side by side with the information there,” he said confidently.

Stakeholders have praised OSSIEC’s proactive measures, describing the preparations as unprecedented.

With only a few steps remaining, including shortlisting and training of adhoc staff, Abioye expressed optimism about delivering a credible election.

“We are ready, and nothing is stopping us, Insha Allah,” he concluded, reiterating the commission’s commitment to transparency and efficiency.