Ogun State LG Elections: OGSIEC Ensures Equal Opportunity for All Parties

As the Ogun State Local Government elections scheduled for November 16 draw closer, the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) has given assurances of fairness and equal opportunities for all political parties.

This commitment is aimed at enhancing transparency and credibility throughout the election process, ensuring that the people’s will is accurately reflected.

Babatunde Osibodu, the Chairman of OGSIEC, made these remarks during a media briefing held in Abeokuta on Friday.

During this engagement, Osibodu reiterated the commission’s dedication to upholding democratic principles and conducting free, fair, and credible elections across the state’s local government areas.

He emphasised the commission’s impartiality in ensuring that no political party is favoured over another, thereby promoting healthy competition and strengthening grassroots democracy.

In his statement, Osibodu underscored the importance of fostering greater collaboration between the electoral commission and political parties.

He noted that OGSIEC would continue to engage in constructive dialogue with various stakeholders, including political parties and other interest groups, to ensure that the electoral process runs smoothly.

The chairman further highlighted the commission’s intention to actively observe political party primaries, which are critical for selecting credible candidates for the local government elections.

Osibodu stated, “Our goal is to create a level playing field where all parties have equal access and opportunity.

If the process is seen to be fair, if the process is credible, if the process is transparent, then the election will be seen as legitimate by all involved. The results, however, lie in the hands of the voters.”

The emphasis on fairness and transparency is key to ensuring that the electoral process is not only free of manipulation but also reflects the true choice of the electorate.

This approach, according to Osibodu, is central to maintaining the integrity of the democratic process.

One of the main concerns raised during previous local government elections in Nigeria has been the timely arrival of voting materials at polling units.

In response, Osibodu assured the public that OGSIEC has made comprehensive arrangements to address logistics and ensure that all voting materials are delivered promptly to polling centres. This preparation aims to prevent delays that could affect the smooth running of the elections and hinder voter participation.

To ensure that the elections are conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner, OGSIEC is also working closely with a broad range of stakeholders.

This includes the state’s House of Assembly, civil society organisations, youth groups, women’s associations, and security agencies. The commission’s partnership with these groups is crucial in preventing security breaches and promoting a safe electoral environment.

The involvement of women and youth groups is particularly important, as these groups often face marginalisation in political processes.

Osibodu called for increased participation of citizens with a proven track record of service and integrity, especially in the administration of local governments.

He believes that having competent and reputable individuals in key positions is vital for strengthening democracy at the grassroots level.

Despite the commission’s proactive measures, Osibodu expressed concerns about the possibility of electoral violence and attempts to disrupt the voting process.

He issued a stern warning to individuals or groups planning to cause unrest or interfere with the peaceful conduct of the elections, stating that such acts would not be tolerated.

“We will not allow anyone to disrupt this important democratic process. The law will take its full course on anyone caught trying to undermine the integrity of these elections,” he warned.

Ensuring a peaceful election is a priority for OGSIEC, and Osibodu’s warning is intended to deter any form of violence or illegal activity during the polls.

The commission, with the support of security agencies, is prepared to enforce the law and ensure that the elections are conducted in a peaceful and orderly fashion.

Local government elections play a critical role in deepening democracy, as they allow citizens to directly influence the governance of their communities.

In Ogun State, the upcoming elections present an opportunity for residents to elect leaders who will represent their interests and address local issues effectively. By ensuring that the electoral process is transparent and credible, OGSIEC aims to foster greater confidence in local governance.

The collaboration between OGSIEC and various civil society organisations further highlights the commission’s commitment to an inclusive and participatory electoral process.

Women, youth, and marginalised groups are encouraged to actively participate in the elections, both as voters and candidates, to help shape the future of their communities.

As the November 16 local government elections approach, the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission has demonstrated its commitment to a fair and transparent electoral process.

Through constructive engagement with political parties, robust logistical arrangements, and a firm stance on preventing electoral disruption, OGSIEC is working to ensure that the will of the people prevails.

With the involvement of civil society groups, women, youth, and security agencies, the elections are set to strengthen democracy at the grassroots level, empowering local governments to serve their communities effectively.