Commissioners and management staff of the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) on Wednesday commenced a two-day capacity building workshop.
This is to equip them on the ingredients needed for the conduct of credible local government 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, Isiaka 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 17 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, 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.
Olaniyan admonished OYSIEC members not to disappoint the people of the state but endeavour to live up to expectations.
Also, Dr. Adedokun Najeem emphasized 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.
