The Chairman of the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), Mr. Babatunde Osibodu has affirmed that all actions taken by his agency are strictly for the progress of the state.
Asserting the determination of OGSIEC to conduct an election that is free and fair to all, Mr. Osibodu insisted that “Everything we do is for the progress of the state.”
Speaking during a radio interview in Abeokuta during the week, the OGSIEC Chairman reiterated the commitment of the commission to conducting a free, fair, and credible election.
He also noted that the release of the election timetable and guidelines which OGSIEC had done was the first step in the electoral process, assuring that further engagements with political parties and stakeholders would follow.
Mr Osibodu clarified issues surrounding the administrative fees charged for the upcoming 2024 Local Government Elections; saying that the fees are directed at political parties, not individual candidates.
He explained that the charges apply to parties fielding candidates for Chairmanship or Councillorship positions in the election.
He explained that the fee aims to boost participation and commitment among political parties.
“Each party must pay the administrative fee,” he noted.
Mr. Osibodu said that People tend to value what they invest in. By paying for their candidates’ forms, parties will demonstrate greater commitment, encouraging more than just a few of the 19 registered parties to show interest,” Osibodu said.
Osibodu emphasised that the commission is legally empowered to impose the fee, having sought legal counsel and received approval from the State House of Assembly.
Addressing concerns raised by Hon. Itunu Abioro, Public Relations Officer of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Ogun State, Osibodu noted that OGSIEC has the legal authority to establish its own electoral guidelines.
He stressed the importance of party participation, stating, “If political parties choose not to participate, they cannot later complain if a single party dominates the election. Non-participation is tantamount to conceding defeat.”
.
