The Chairman of the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission, Mr. Babatunde Osibodu, has announced that the commission will adopt a manual collation process for the upcoming 2024 local government elections in Ogun State.
Speaking during an appearance on Eagle 102.5 FM’s current affairs programme, ‘Frontline,’ Mr. Osibodu cited financial constraints as the primary reason for not deploying technological methods for result collation. He noted that such technologies would be “too expensive for the commission to bear.” He, however, assured the public that the manual process would still be conducted with the highest level of integrity and transparency.
The OGSIEC chairman also addressed the delay of the elections, noting that certain factors beyond the commission’s control had made it challenging to adhere strictly to the timelines set out in Section 27 of the Local Government Law of Ogun State, 2006. This law mandates that local government council elections must be held not earlier than sixty days and not later than thirty days before the expiration of the current council’s term. Mr. Osibodu acknowledged that while these timelines are ideal, practical realities sometimes necessitate adjustments.
Regarding voter registration, Mr. Osibodu announced that there would be no new voter registrations for the 2024 local government elections. Instead, the commission will use voter data compiled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2023 gubernatorial elections. He clarified that OGSIEC does not have the mandate to register voters, hence the reliance on INEC’s existing voter database.
Mr. Osibodu underscored the importance of participation from all political parties in the upcoming elections to ensure a fair and democratic process. “If opposition parties do not put forward candidates, it opens the door to manipulation and rigging,” he warned. He encouraged all parties to actively participate and field candidates to maintain the integrity of the electoral process and uphold the democratic values of Ogun State.
In response to criticisms concerning the non-refundable ₦250,000 administrative fee required for party participation, Mr. Osibodu defended the commission’s policy, saying that the fee does not violate the 1999 Constitution or the Electoral Act of 2022, as some critics, particularly the Inter-Party Advisory Council, have claimed. “There is no law prohibiting the commission from charging an administrative fee,” he explained, adding that the fee is charged per party, not per individual candidate. Mr. Osibodu further elaborated that a court judgment had not banned the administrative fee itself but had prohibited the collection of an interest of nomination fee by the commission.
To ensure a smooth and peaceful electoral process, Mr. Osibodu stated that OGSIEC is taking all necessary measures to prevent violence and ensure the safety of lives and property during the elections. He expressed confidence in the security arrangements being put in place and called on the public to support the commission’s efforts to maintain peace. “We are working closely with security agencies to provide a safe environment for all voters,” he assured.
Despite the challenges and concerns raised, Mr. Osibodu reaffirmed OGSIEC’s commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election. “We are committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency and fairness,” he declared, urging all stakeholders, including political parties and the electorate, to cooperate with the commission to achieve a successful electoral process. As the election date approaches, all eyes will be on OGSIEC to see how it navigates these challenges and delivers an election that accurately reflects the will of the people of Ogun State”, he stressed.
