Soji Ajibola, Ibadan
Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission has commenced a two-day capacity building workshop to equip its commissioners and directors on the ingredients needed for the conduct of a credible local government council elections.
The workshop with the theme; “Thematic Issues in the Conduct of Local Government Election in Oyo State” was organised by OYSIEC in conjunction with the University of Ibadan Ventures Limited (Consultancy Services).
OYSIEC Chairman, Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju, SAN, while speaking at the workshop tagged “Thematic Issues in the Conduct of Local Government Election in Oyo State” held at the Conference Hall, University of Ibadan said the workshop was part of preparations of the commission towards the conduct of local government council election.
According to him “The lecture will provide an opportunity to the OYSIEC team to further learn and appraise the electoral process in order to achieve free, fair, credible and transparent election by May 15, 2021”.
He hinted that 17 political parties have signified interest in the poll, noting that the commission remained committed to conducting an election that will stand the test of time.
We cannot assume we know everything; we have to learn and re- learn for excellent results”.
“This is just the first phase of the workshop, there is going to be another one for all electoral officers the moment they are on ground to ensure they deliver accordingly. We are reassuring relevant stakeholders in the state that their votes will count on election day,” he added.
Dr Kazeem Olaniyan of the University of Ibadan, who spoke on the topic “Imperative of Local Government Election in the Democratic Process” affirmed that the presence of elected officeholders at local government remains the medium to articulate and promote the interest of the people.
“Dr Olaniyan admonished OYSIEC members not to disappoint the people of the state but endeavour to live up to expectations.”
Also speaking, Dr Adedokun Najeem, emphasised the need for the commission members to pay attention to the availability of election materials ahead of election day to ease the burden on concerned personnel.
He enjoined OYSIEC members to be a role model for other states by conducting standard local government council elections.