The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC), led by its Chairman, Dr. Afeez Adeniyi, on Thursday, held an interactive meeting with representatives of registered political parties in Oyo state as part of preparations for the forthcoming local government council elections in the state.
During the meeting, which took place at the Commission’s headquarters in Ibadan, copies of the election guidelines were distributed to political parties by OYSIEC ahead of primaries scheduled to hold between June 29 and July 27, 2026.
Addressing the participants, Dr. Adeniyi emphasized the critical role political parties play in the electoral process, urging 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 forwarding the names of successful candidates to the commission as required by the electoral law.
The OYSIEC Chairman also urged political parties to carefully study and adhere to the election guidelines issued by the commission, noting that compliance would help prevent avoidable pre-election disputes and litigation.
Responding to questions and concerns raised by party representatives, Dr. Adeniyi reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to strictly adhere to the laws governing the conduct of 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 Movemet, Oyo State , Mr. Kabiru Akinade, expressed concerns over some of the 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 Kafayat 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 the participants for their attendance and valuable contributions during the engagement.
The meeting also featured special prayers for the safe and speedy release of the abducted school children and teachers from Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
