The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) continued its preparations for a seamless Local Government Councils Election with a visit to the office of the Oyo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Adeniran Tella.
The OYSIEC Chairman, Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju, SAN, explained at the INEC Headquarters, Ibadan, that the visit aimed to officially notify INEC of the election date and seek support for its effective conduct.
Aare Olagunju emphasized the supportive roles of INEC to States Electoral Commissions as evident in the law. He highlighted the need for collaboration with INEC to achieve the desired result.
He sought INEC’s support for the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BIVAS) for the election, aligning with the request of all registered political parties during various engagements.
“We are here today to inform your office officially that our election will come up on 27th April 2024 and also make our request known,” said Aare Olagunju.
He acknowledged the support from INEC in 2021 and expressed the commission’s openness to advice.
“It is in our plan to display the voter register by January 2024. We need an updated voter register, access to BIVAS for the election, training on ICT devices for our staff, voter education, among others.”
Responding, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Oyo State, Dr. Adeniran Tella, promised to collaborate with OYSIEC to ensure a level playing ground for an effective and credible Local Government Councils Election.
Dr. Adeniran stressed the importance of staffers having access to necessary apparatus under proper guidance for elections to meet global standards.
He affirmed INEC’s readiness to build the capacity of those engaged by OYSIEC and provide support in various areas.
On the use of BIVAS, Dr. Adeniran mentioned seeking approval from INEC Headquarters, Abuja, on behalf of OYSIEC. He reiterated the significance of grassroots leadership and encouraged voters to participate in the election.
“I believe OYSIEC and INEC are twins, it is our election. OYSIEC gave us necessary support during the last General Elections, and we assured you of our support so that people’s votes will not be in jeopardy.
“It is my joy that OYSIEC is leaving no stone unturned; I urge the electorate to vote for preferred candidates.”
