Oyo Promises Fair, Credible LG Polls

Oyo State Pledges Transparent Local Government Elections on December 29, 2026

The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) has formally pledged its commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible local government and councillorship elections on December 29, 2026. This assurance was officially communicated by the OYSIEC Chairman, Babatunde Adeniyi, during a courtesy visit from the executive members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ibadan.

Chairman Adeniyi emphasized that the commission will operate with strict adherence to all established electoral laws and guidelines. This commitment is intended to ensure that the election’s outcome is not only legally sound but also widely accepted by all political parties and the citizens of Oyo State.

“All the processes leading to the election are in top gear,” stated Chairman Adeniyi. “We are dedicated to complying with all relevant laws and conducting a credible election that will be acceptable to all stakeholders.”

The commission recognizes the vital role of various stakeholders in achieving its electoral objectives. Consequently, OYSIEC is actively seeking the cooperation of both the media and political parties. This collaborative approach is deemed essential for the commission to successfully fulfill its mandate and, importantly, to address the persistent issue of voter apathy that has frequently marred local government elections within the state.

Chairman Adeniyi took the opportunity to acknowledge and commend the media for its unwavering support, noting its consistent assistance even prior to his appointment. He expressed a strong desire to foster and sustain this positive relationship, highlighting the media’s indispensable function.

“This visit will not be taken for granted,” Chairman Adeniyi remarked. “Media practitioners have consistently served as a crucial bridge between leaders and the populace. Your commitment to balanced reportage has been invaluable, and we are deeply grateful for your ongoing support.” He further elaborated on the indispensable nature of media involvement, stating, “The electoral process has commenced, and there is no conceivable way we can deliver a transparent and credible election without the robust support of the media.”

Adding to the commission’s proactive stance, OYSIEC Commissioner Remi Ayoade extended a direct appeal to political parties across Oyo State. Commissioner Ayoade urged them to embrace active participation in the forthcoming local government and councillorship elections, underscoring the importance of their engagement for a vibrant democratic process.

Earlier in the proceedings, the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Yinka Adeniran, lauded Chairman Adeniyi, describing him as a seasoned unionist with a proven track record of advocating for the welfare of the less privileged. This endorsement from the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel signals a positive reception to OYSIEC’s leadership and its stated intentions.

“We have full confidence in your capacity to deliver a credible and fair election,” Chairman Adeniran stated, expressing the chapel’s belief in Adeniyi’s ability to “deepen grassroots democracy for the benefit of the state.” This sentiment reflects a shared aspiration for enhanced democratic governance at the local level.

The upcoming elections are anticipated to be a significant event for Oyo State, offering an opportunity to strengthen democratic institutions and ensure responsive governance at the grassroots. OYSIEC’s public commitment to transparency and fairness, coupled with its call for broad stakeholder engagement, sets a promising tone for the electoral process ahead. The commission’s proactive approach in seeking media and political party cooperation suggests a strategic effort to overcome past challenges and deliver an election that truly reflects the will of the people.

The preparations for the December 29, 2026 elections are reportedly progressing smoothly, with OYSIEC working diligently to ensure all logistical and administrative aspects are in place. The commission’s pledge to uphold electoral integrity is a cornerstone of its mandate, and its public pronouncements aim to instill confidence among voters and candidates alike. The success of these elections will be a testament to OYSIEC’s commitment to democratic principles and its ability to foster a participatory electoral environment.