The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) has commenced consultations with registered political parties as part of preparations for the forthcoming local government elections in the state.
At an interactive meeting held on Thursday at the commission’s headquarters in Ibadan, OYSIEC Chairman, Dr. Afeez Adeniyi, met with representatives of political parties and distributed copies of the election guidelines ahead of party primaries scheduled to hold between June 29 and July 27, 2026.
Addressing participants, Dr. Adeniyi underscored the crucial role of political parties in the electoral process and urged them to faithfully discharge their constitutional responsibilities to ensure credible and peaceful elections.
He stressed the need for parties to conduct their primaries within the stipulated timeframe and submit the names of successful candidates to the commission in accordance with the electoral law.
The OYSIEC chairman also advised political parties to thoroughly study and comply with the guidelines issued by the commission, noting that adherence would help prevent avoidable pre-election disputes and litigation.
Responding to concerns raised by party representatives, Dr. Adeniyi reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to strict compliance with the laws guiding the conduct of local government elections in Oyo State.
He further called for increased participation of women in leadership and elective positions, describing women as indispensable contributors to national development.
“Today, we engaged representatives of registered political parties under the umbrella of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC). This meeting forms part of our preparations for the local government elections slated 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 necessary.”
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) in Oyo State, Mr. Kabiru Akinade, highlighted some of the challenges associated with the conduct of local government elections in Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Oyo State Woman Leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Mrs. Olajumoke Odususi, advocated greater 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 details of successful candidates submitted to the commission, stressing that such diligence would serve the interest of both the parties and their candidates.
She also appreciated participants for their attendance and valuable contributions during the engagement.
The meeting concluded with special prayers for the safe and speedy release of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
