Osun Election Commission Clears Air, Says February 2025 Polls to Proceed as Scheduled

By Shola Aderinto, 

In a bid to address the lingering uncertainty surrounding the conduct of the Osun State local government elections, the Chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), Hashim Abioye Esq., has issued a statement clarifying the commission's position.

Abioye declared that OSSIEC is under no pressure or legal hindrance to conduct the elections, scheduled for February 2025.

The chairman made this known in a statement released on July 11, 2024, addressing concerns and speculations surrounding the election.

According to Abioye, OSSIEC is proceeding with its scheduled timetable and activities, having issued a notice of election in line with the law.

The notice, published on February 19, 2024, provides at least 360 days' notice, as required by the Electoral Act and OSSIEC Law.

Abioye emphasized that any defect in the notice would invalidate the election, but OSSIEC has fulfilled its legal obligations.

He explained that the commission has scheduled political party primaries to take place between July 22 and August 6, 2024.

Abioye noted that political parties have begun notifying OSSIEC of their respective dates for the primaries.

The chairman dismissed claims that OSSIEC is rushing or under pressure to conduct the elections.

He stated that the commission is "not desperate" and will not falter on the side of the law.

Abioye also clarified that the recent Supreme Court judgment on local council autonomy does not affect OSSIEC's mandate to conduct elections.

In fact, Abioye noted that it is the judiciary that sacked purported council officials under the immediate past administration in Osun State who have appealed the judgment.

The chairman assured that OSSIEC is under no legal inhibition to proceed with the election as planned.

He reiterated that there is no cause for worry, and the commission is committed to conducting a free, fair, and legal election.

Abioye invited "reasonable people and discerning minds" to review the notice and timetable issued by OSSIEC to understand the commission's position.

With this statement, OSSIEC aims to alleviate concerns and reaffirm its commitment to upholding the law and ensuring a smooth electoral process.