Active participation of political parties in the electoral process of voter registration and results collation is crucial to the success of the forthcoming Local Government elections in the state.Chairman, Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission, (OGSIEC), Mr. Babatunde Osibodu, stated this during a parley with the 17 registered political parties in the state, at the Commission's headquarters in Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, pointing out that their input and cooperation in all stages of the Chairmanship and Councillorship elections would engender a seamless exercise.
He reiterated the umpire's commitment to a continuous engagement with political parties for a credible poll, saying, "the essence of the gathering is to foster collaborations with political parties, we believe that by working together, we can create an inclusive, transparent electoral system that truly represents the will of the people”.
The Chairman maintained that, "as the Commission Continues to gear up for the forthcoming polls on November 16, 2024, it is important that the highest level of integrity, fairness ++and professionalism is sustained, while ensuring electoral process is free, fair, credible and peaceful".
He urged them to campaign vigorously to convince the electorate of their capacity to do the job, adding that political parties should ensure their agents were on ground at the polling units to sign result sheets, in order to prevent rigging.
The Chairman assured them of adequate security, disclosing that the Commission was working assiduously with all security agencies, to checkmate any security breach towards ensuring a smooth electoral process.
Earlier, Permanent Secretary in the agency, Engr. Olabode Ojetola, emphasised the need to elect people of integrity towards the development of the society.
He enjoined political parties to cooperate with the Commission to ensure free, fair, credible elections, devoid of rancour, chaos and violence.
Appreciating the Commission for the political parley, one of the stakeholders at the meeting, Mr. Yinka Ola-Williams, said that the initiative would foster good relationship with political parties and engender a hitch-free exercise.
