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THE Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSSEIC on Thursday, November 28, 2024 held a workshop for the management and staff of the electoral body ahead of the Local Government Election scheduled to hold on February 22, 2025.
The seminar organized by the Justice Development and Peace Makers’ Center, Osogbo in collaboration with the European Union in preparation for the forthcoming Local Government election was to equip OSSEIC officials for a hitch-free election with a primary goal of fostering a credible and transparent local government election process in the state.
The workshop was held at the Reginal Suit Hotel, Ring Road Area, Osogbo.
A Day of Engagement and Learning
Under the theme, “Towards Credible Local Government Election in Osun State,” the workshop was aimed to equip attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to enhance electoral integrity.
The session featured interactive discussions, expert-led presentations, and strategic planning exercises, laying the groundwork for future collaborative efforts that uphold the credibility of local elections in Osun.
Chairman of OSSIEC Sets the tone
The workshop opened with remarks from the Chairman of OSSIEC, Hashim Abioye Esq who emphasized the importance of transparency and professionalism in ensuring free and fair local elections. “Our commitment to maintaining the trust of the people hinges on our dedication to transparency and professionalism,” he stated.
The event featured distinguished facilitator, Dr Ayilara who led discussions on electoral best practices, innovations in election management, and strategies for boosting voter participation. Panel sessions included insights from seasoned electoral experts and OSSIEC leaders, who shared strategies for combating electoral malpractices and upholding democratic values.
One of the highlights was Ayilara thought-provoking lecture, which shed light on challenges facing Nigeria’s electoral system, particularly systemic issues and the legal approach to election crimes.
Ayilara pointed out the early exposure to unethical electoral practices, such as vote manipulation in secondary school elections, as a catalyst for developing a mindset that normalizes corruption.
He recalled an incident from 7 or 8 years ago where a teacher distributed sweets to influence voting results, illustrating how such experiences shape attitudes toward elections.
Ayilara emphasized that while the Electoral Act 2022 outlines penalties for offenses like vote buying and illegal campaigning, weak enforcement remains a major issue.
He stressed that criminal activities such as vote buying, ballot stuffing, and manipulating electoral materials significantly erode public trust and the perceived legitimacy of elected officials, undermining democratic institutions.
The discussion also covered various electoral crimes:
Pre-election offenses, such as voter registration fraud.
During-election crimes, including the use of political thugs and incitement of violence.
Post-election malpractices, including result manipulation and the intimidation of election monitors.
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Ayilara proposed that, while laws are comprehensive, success hinges on their effective implementation and the attitudes of those enforcing them. He called for a dual approach to combat electoral corruption:
To reduce crimes and criminality
- We must strengthen our Electoral laws. There must be a limit to what you can spend.
- Voters education and awareness: Sensitization of people at the grassroots, NURTW and the market men and women.
- The need to improve the integrity of Electoral bodies.
- Make sure there are checks and balances
- Election must be monitored and reported accurately.
- Strengthening the judicial system.
- Looking at the qualification of candidates.
- Learn to do things with best international practices.
- Election offenders are brought to books.
- Auditing of the system, the knocks and praises.
- Enhanced voter education and awareness, ensuring the public understands their rights and responsibilities.
- Improved whistleblower protections, promoting a safe environment for those exposing electoral misconduct.
The Chairman of OSSIEC, Abioye reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to upholding democratic principles. “Today marks the beginning of a renewed effort,” he said, urging participants to apply the knowledge and strategies discussed in their professional roles.
The event was a significant step forward for OSSIEC, strengthening the foundation for credible Local Government elections in Osun State.
Organizers extended their gratitude to all participants for their active engagement and commitment to enhancing electoral integrity.
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Abioye added that when the Commissioner came on board the first thing they did was to launch the “Campaign against election Two C and D” the two Cs is “Cultism and Cybercrime while the D is “Drug Abuse” without which election rigging and violence will not be possible.
If Cultism, cybercrime and drug abuse, according to Abioye, there will be a hitch-free that will be acceptable by all stakeholders.
He promised that OSSEIC under his watch will not bend the rules for the advantage of any political party.
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