Osun IPAC passes vote of no confidence in OSIEC
By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo
The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Osun State chapter has passed a vote of no confidence in the State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC), stating that the action of the commission signals apparent attempt to manipulate the electoral process.
IPAC, in a statement jointly signed by its State Chairman, Pastor Victor Akande, Secretary, Mr Oluseye Odesola and IPAC State Publicity Secretary, Dr Gbenga Afeni, on Thursday, condemned what it described as a political game orchestrated by the electoral umpire.
It would be recalled that the Chairman of OSIEC, Barrister Ashim Abioye had announced that the Local Government election would be held on February 22, 2025.
However, IPAC raised concerns over OSIEC’s credibility in conducting the Local Government elections.
The statement reads: “Despite OSIEC’s recent publication in the Nigeria Tribune on February 19, 2024, announcing plans to conduct Local Government elections within set guidelines and schedules, IPAC is compelled to bring public attention to what appears to be a political game orchestrated by OSIEC.
“IPAC members closely monitored OSIEC’s actions and noted with concern the commission’s apparent attempt to manipulate the electoral process.
“Despite the promising leadership at OSIEC, including a dynamic chairman and commissioners, IPAC observed a lack of concrete action on the ground.
“The commission’s publication mentioned a mere 42 working days for party primaries to commence, failing to reference relevant electoral laws or guidelines that should guide their operations.
“IPAC is deeply concerned that OSIEC’s approach signals a reluctance to conducting transparent and credible elections.
“The lack of communication with political parties since the initial meeting raises further doubts about OSIEC’s commitment to a fair electoral process.
“The current administration’s shift towards caretaker coordinators instead of holding timely Local Government elections add to the uncertainty surrounding upcoming polls.”
IPAC called upon the Osun State House of Assembly to intervene and urged OSIEC to adhere to constitutional obligations within a reasonable time frame.
