The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission has called for closer cooperation with the Independent National Electoral Commission ahead of the state’s local government elections, as part of efforts to improve credibility and transparency in the process.
OYSIEC Chairman, Dr. Afees Adeniyi, made the appeal on Thursday, the 26th of March, 2026, during a visit to INEC headquarters in Ibadan.
He said the visit was to formally inform INEC of the new election date and request support for the smooth conduct of the polls.
Adeniyi noted that existing laws assign INEC a supporting role to state electoral bodies and stressed the need for continued collaboration.
“We are here today to engage with your office as a sister electoral body and to formally notify you that our election is scheduled to hold on 29th December 2026, while also presenting our requests.
“We received tremendous support from your office in 2023, and we remain grateful. We look forward to further guidance and advice from the commission as we prepare for the forthcoming election.
“As part of our preparations, we intend to request certain electoral materials, including an updated voter register, and seek for your advice on how to tackle political apathy and other relevant matters,” he said.
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In his response, Resident Electoral Commissioner in Oyo State, Prof. Adeniran Tella, said INEC would work with OYSIEC to ensure a credible exercise.
He described the role of state electoral commissions as key to strengthening democracy at the grassroots and said successful elections would support governance in the state.
“As you assume office,I encourage you to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, neutrality, and respect for the rule of law.
“It is pertinent to note that candidates of the ruling party in the state usually emerge as the winner in the conduct of Local Government Elections.It is time for state Independent Electoral Commissions to take the bull by the horns by conducting proper elections and demonstrating the courage needed to uphold the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.
“It is our hope that this engagement will further strengthen the cordial relationship between the two institutions,” Tella said.