The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC), has revealed its plan to collaborate with the Oyo State Anti—Corruption Agency (OYACA), on the forthcoming Local Government Councils Election in the state.
The Chairman of the Commission, Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju, SAN, while featuring on a Yoruba live radio program on Tuesday, in Ibadan, said the proposed collaboration was part of measures considered important to make the election credible and acceptable.
Olagunju said the role of OYACA on election day will be strictly surveillance, close watch on those that might engage in vote buying and reporting culprits to the commission for appropriate action.
On the readiness of all the registered political parties to participate in the election slated for 27th April, 2024, Olagunju explained that the development was as a result of their interest in the development of the state, which he said requires collective efforts.
Aare Olagunju advocated for a positive mindset and change of attitude among residents in elections participation for the state to witness monumental development, particularly at the grassroots.
He explained that it is necessary for all stakeholders in the business of election conduct to play their roles as expected to achieve a free, fair, transparent and credible election.
“ Five people or groups are involved in election conduct, and each must do the needful to have a credible election.
” The electoral umpire, that is, OYSIEC, is to make election materials available and be transparent. Political parties must follow due process, hold campaigns peacefully and orientate their followers on a good path to follow and do the same. Citizens and residents must change their orientation, they must not stay at home on election day and watch television but go to polling units to vote.
“Candidates should campaign peacefully without rancour and ensure their agents are fully on ground on the day of election. Security agencies too must apprehend anyone who is in conflict with the electoral rules and regulations before, during and after the day of election.They should hand them over for prosecution, by this, other people will stay away from electoral offenses in the future.
“ Adequate training will be given to ad-hoc staff. Our plan is to deploy successful applicants to where they reside, where they are known, and we believe it will be difficult for them to go against the laid down rules because they will be traced by their neighbours “
