The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission, OYSIEC, has released guidelines and schedule for the local government primary elections in the state.
OYSIEC Chairman, Dr. Afeez Adeniyi, disclosed this on Thursday during an interactive meeting with representatives of registered political parties in Oyo State. The meeting was held at the commission’s headquarters in Ibadan.
According to the guidelines, political parties are to conduct their primaries between June 29 and July 27, 2026.
Addressing participants, Dr. Adeniyi emphasized the critical role of political parties in the electoral process. He urged them to diligently discharge their constitutional responsibilities to ensure a credible and peaceful election.
He stressed the importance of conducting party primaries within the stipulated period and submitting the names of successful candidates to the commission as required by electoral law.
The OYSIEC chairman also urged political parties to carefully study and adhere to the election guidelines issued by the commission. He noted that compliance would help prevent avoidable pre-election disputes and litigation.
Responding to questions raised by party representatives, Dr. Adeniyi reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to strict adherence to the laws governing local government council elections in Oyo State.
He called on political parties to promote greater inclusion of women in leadership and elective positions, describing women as vital contributors to national development.
“Today, we engaged representatives of registered political parties under the umbrella of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC. This meeting is part of our preparations for the local government council elections scheduled for December 29, 2026,” he said.
“We had fruitful discussions and exchanged ideas. Our officials will be available during the party primaries to monitor the process and provide necessary guidance where required.”
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, and National Rescue Movement, Oyo State, Mr. Kabiru Akinade, expressed concerns over some challenges associated with the conduct of local government council elections in Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Oyo State Woman Leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Chief Mrs. Olajumoke Odususi, advocated increased inclusion of women in electoral processes and decision-making structures as preparations for the elections gather momentum.
The Permanent Secretary of OYSIEC, Mrs. Abisola Ogunmola, advised political parties to ensure accuracy in the personal data of successful candidates to be submitted to the commission, in the interest of the parties and their candidates.
She appreciated participants for their attendance and valuable contributions during the engagement.
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