Emmanuel Oludare
The Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) has come under fire from the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) for releasing election guidelines without consulting political parties in the state.
The guidelines, which include the introduction of administrative fees for candidates, have sparked significant backlash, with the IPAC threatening what it describes as a political “tsunami” if the policies are not rescinded.
Abayomi Sanyaolu, Chairman of the Ogun State chapter of IPAC, voiced the concerns of various political parties in the state during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Abeokuta.
Sanyaolu condemned the decision by OGSIEC to introduce fees for candidates, arguing that it contradicts the principles of transparency and fairness.
According to him, the lack of consultation with political parties before the guidelines were released undermines the credibility of the upcoming local government elections.
“Last local government election, they said it and when we complained, they removed it. How can they now say again we’re going to pay money? Are they the owners of our political parties?
“Did INEC collect money from us when we went to contest? How will OGSIEC now say we should pay money? INEC did not bill us; how can OGSIEC bill us? So, if we pay money to OGSIEC now, and candidates will still pay money to the party, can we kill our people?” Sanyaolu questioned.
OGSIEC, however, remains steadfast in its decision, asserting that the fees are part of its efforts to encourage gender inclusivity in politics.
The guidelines stipulate that chairmanship candidates are required to pay ₦250,000, male councillorship candidates ₦150,000, and female councillorship candidates ₦100,000.
OGSIEC said the reduced fee for female candidates is aimed at boosting women’s participation in local governance, saying it believes the move is crucial for promoting gender balance in politics.
OGSIEC Chairman, Mr. Babatunde Osibodu, represented by Commissioner Mr. Tunji Akoni, announced the election guidelines and timetable for the 2024 local government elections, set to be held on November 16.
Osibodu emphasized the importance of adhering to the guidelines, urging all stakeholders to focus on gaining political power at the grassroots level through effective campaigns and manifesto presentations to the electorate.
He reassured that the commission is committed to conducting a free, fair, and credible election that will set a standard for future elections.
Despite these assurances, Sanyaolu and other political leaders remain unconvinced.
The chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Barrister Femi Aina, echoed Sanyaolu’s concerns, highlighting the lack of transparency in previous local government elections.
Aina called for a credible and accountable election process, urging OGSIEC to ensure public education and awareness to guarantee credible results.
He also expressed confidence in his party’s chances of winning in several local governments, provided that the election process is fair.
In his response to questions from stakeholders, Osibodu clarified that OGSIEC would supervise all party primaries and ensure equal opportunities for all contestants.
He invited candidates who feel shortchanged at any ward level to lodge complaints with the commission, promising that such issues would be addressed in line with the guidelines.
Osibodu also assured that the media would be involved in monitoring and tracking activities throughout the electoral process to ensure transparency.
Adding his voice to the call for a smooth democratic process, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiu Hazmat, urged all stakeholders and aspirants to contribute positively and avoid actions that could destabilize the polity.
His sentiments were echoed by the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland and Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, who, in a goodwill message delivered by the Aboro of Ibese, Oba Rotimi Mulero, reiterated the traditional institution’s support for all political parties.
He called on all aspirants and stakeholders to cooperate with OGSIEC to ensure a peaceful and successful election.
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