Oyo Local Government Polls: PDP Sweeps, Amid Criticisms And Protests
The recent local government elections held in Oyo State on April 27, 2024, by the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC), under the chairmanship of Isiaka Olagunju, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has sparked various reactions and controversies....CONTINUE READING
According to OYSIEC, the elections were conducted peacefully across all 33 local government areas and 361 wards. However, reports from our correspondent reveal significant issues such as voter apathy, late arrival of electoral materials, and the absence of result sheets in many polling units.
Despite these challenges, the electoral body declared winners the day after the elections, with candidates from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) emerging victorious in all positions.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, praised the peaceful conduct of the elections, expressing satisfaction with the turnout of voters and the security arrangements.
Similarly, Hon. Adedeji Stanley Olajide, a member of the House of Representatives, described the election as peaceful and commended the efforts of security agencies in maintaining order.
However, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the major opposition party in the state, called for the cancellation of the elections, labeling them a sham. The APC alleged irregularities, including inadequate voting materials, late arrival of electoral officials, and violence against opposition members.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Barrister Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, echoed APC’s concerns, stating that OYSIEC was ill-prepared for the elections.
Dr. Thomas Olayode, a former Chairman of Itesiwaju local government area, criticized the elections for late commencement of voting and inadequate preparations, leading to low voter turnout.
A senior lecturer at Lead City University, Dr. Bayonle Busari, condemned the elections as a mockery of democracy, citing widespread irregularities and voter disenfranchisement.
Similarly, a public commentator described the elections as a show of shame, accusing the electoral body of gross misconduct and manipulation. The commentator also criticized the media for failing to hold the political class accountable.
The Oyo local government elections have thus drawn mixed reactions, with the PDP celebrating victory amidst criticisms and protests from opposition parties and concerned citizens.