Ogun State Electoral Commission Lowers Age Limit for LG Elections to 25

In a significant update ahead of the upcoming local government elections, the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) has amended the age qualification for candidates, reducing the minimum age from 30 to 25 years.

This change, announced by the Commission’s Chairman, Babatunde Osibodu, aligns the state’s electoral guidelines with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, allowing a younger cohort of candidates to participate in the democratic process.

According to Osibodu, the adjustment follows a comprehensive review of the laws governing local government elections in Ogun State.

The decision was made to bring OGSIEC’s guidelines in line with Section 7(4) and Section 106 of the Nigerian Constitution, which state that any individual who has attained the age of 25 years is eligible to stand for election.

This move is seen as an effort to encourage greater youth involvement in local governance and to reflect the changing dynamics of political participation in Nigeria.

The Commission has also extended the deadline for political parties to conduct their primaries by one week, allowing them additional time to complete the selection process for their candidates.

Initially set to conclude on Monday, 9th September 2024, the primaries will now be extended until Monday, 16th September 2024.

This extension provides parties with the opportunity to adapt to the new age requirements and ensures that younger candidates are adequately represented in the selection process.

In addition, the deadline for the collection of personal data forms (CF001 and CF002) by political parties has also been extended to Friday, 20th September 2024. This extension aims to give parties ample time to prepare and submit the required documentation for their candidates.

Political parties that have already conducted their primaries are eligible to begin collecting the necessary forms from Tuesday, 10th September 2024, with submissions accepted between Monday, 16th September and Friday, 20th September 2024.

The election timetable, as outlined by OGSIEC, remains largely unchanged, with the Chairmanship and Councillorship elections scheduled to take place on 16th November 2024.

The Commission’s decision to adjust the age limit and extend key deadlines reflects a commitment to inclusivity and the smooth execution of the electoral process.

To further facilitate communication and coordination, OGSIEC has invited all political parties intending to participate in the upcoming elections to a crucial meeting scheduled for 12:00 pm on Monday, 9th September 2024, at the Commission’s headquarters in Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta.

The meeting is designed to provide an opportunity for the Commission to brief party representatives on the revised guidelines and answer any questions that may arise from the recent changes.

Osibodu has requested that each party limit their delegation to no more than two representatives, ensuring a focused and productive discussion.

The reduction in the minimum age requirement for candidates is expected to have a significant impact on the upcoming elections, potentially increasing the diversity of candidates and energising the political landscape in Ogun State.

By lowering the age limit, OGSIEC is opening doors for younger individuals who are eager to contribute to the development of their communities but may have previously been excluded due to age restrictions.

This policy change is part of a broader movement within Nigeria to empower the youth and encourage their active participation in governance at all levels.

The inclusion of younger candidates in the electoral process is anticipated to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to local government leadership.

It also aligns with national efforts to bridge the gap between the government and the younger population, addressing issues that are particularly relevant to young people, such as employment, education, and social services.

The hope is that by allowing younger individuals to take on leadership roles, local governments will become more responsive and attuned to the needs of their communities.

This amendment by OGSIEC not only makes local governance more accessible but also serves as a call to action for young Nigerians to step forward and make their voices heard.

As the 16th November 2024 elections approach, all eyes will be on Ogun State to see how this bold move to lower the age limit will reshape the local political landscape and inspire similar reforms in other states across the country.

he engagement of youth in the democratic process is crucial for the future of Nigeria, and this development marks a positive step towards a more inclusive and representative political system.