The Chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), Hashim Abioye, has assured the public that vote buying will not pose a significant threat during the forthcoming local government elections scheduled for February 15, 2025.
Speaking at a workshop for OSSIEC board members and staff in Osogbo, Abioye emphasized that while challenges might arise, vote buying is less pronounced at the local government level compared to general elections.
“Vote buying is not as pronounced in local government elections as it is in general elections. We have put facilities in place to curb its occurrence, and I assure you it will not be an issue,” Abioye stated.
He also addressed concerns about political parties excluded from the candidate list, noting that OSSIEC adhered to the rules during the verification process. Litigation arising from these exclusions is being handled, with Abioye affirming that legal disputes are part of the electoral process and would not disrupt the election schedule.
All registered political parties are set to participate in the polls, further reinforcing the credibility of the process, according to the OSSIEC chairman.
Abioye concluded by expressing confidence in the preparedness of OSSIEC to conduct a fair and transparent local government election.
