Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission ( OYSIEC ) on wednesday commenced a two day capacity building workshop to equip OYSIEC Commissioners and Directors of the commission on the ingredients needed for the conduct of credible local government councils elections .
The workshop
organised by OYSIEC in conjunction with University of Ibadan Ventures Limited ( Consultancy Services ) , had in attendance , Professor Rasheed Aderinoye , Dr. Gani Adeniran amongst others .
The 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 elections .
According to him ” The lecture will provide opportunity to OYSIEC team to further learn and appraise electoral processes in order to achieve free, fair, credible and transparent election by May 15, 2021 ”
He hinted that seventeen political parties have signified interest in the poll , noting that the commission remained committed to conduct of election that will stand the test of time .
” We cannot assume we know all, we have to learn and re- learn for excellent results ”
” This is just 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 re -assuring relevant stakeholders in the state that their votes will count on election day ” He added .
Dr . Kazeem Olaniyan of University of Ibadan, who spoke on the topic ” Imperative of Local Government Election in the Democratic Process ” affirmed that the presence of elected office holders 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 members of the commission to pay attention to availability of election materials ahead of election 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.