OGSIEC Releases Electoral Guidelines For Nov 16 Local Govts' Poll , Assures Political Parties Of Credible Electoral Process

Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) has released Electoral Guidelines and Timetable for the 2024 Local Government elections, assuring political parties of free, fair , transparent and credible electoral process 

The Chairman of the Commission Mr. Babatunde Osibodu at a Stakeholders meeting held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, said the elections are scheduled for Saturday, November 16, 2024.

Represented by one of the Commissioners at OGSIEC, Mr. Tunji Akoni, Osibodu reiterated the Commission's commitment to conducting "an election that is not only free, fair and credible but also setting a benchmark in the history of Ogun State and Nigeria".

"We are guided by section 197(1)(b) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, which established the State Independent Electoral Commission and section 14(1) and 15(e) of the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (as amended) which empowers the Commission to oversee all Local Government Council elections in the state" he stated.

The Chairman urged all stakeholders to channel their efforts towards gaining political power at the grassroots level, appealing to aspirants to take the guidelines and stipulations seriously throughout the electioneering period.

While fielding questions from the audience, he said "the Commission will supervise all party primaries. We will be physically present. Any shortchanged candidate at any ward level can walk into our offices to complain.

"We shall involve the media and be transparent throughout the electoral process. No candidate shall be discriminated against. As campaign commences from August 9, 2024, I want to advise all political parties to please campaign and let the electorate know you".

In his remark, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiu Hazmat appealed to all stakeholders and aspirants to help in the democratic process and avoid heating up the polity.

In his goodwill message, the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland and Chairman of Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba kehinde Olugbenle, represented by the Aboro of Ibese, Oba Rotimi Mulero, reemphasised the traditional institution's support for all political parties, admonishing all aspirants and stakeholders to support OGSIEC towards ensuring a smooth democratic process.