Osun Guber: INEC Engages CSOs, PWDs, Others, Assures Conclusive Poll

Ahead of the Osun State gubernatorial election and its ongoing preparation for a successful and inclusive election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed that its findings indicates that the elite are the ones contributing significantly to voter apathy in each elections.

This revelation was made by the Osun INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Professor Abdulganiy Olayinka Raji during a two day capacity building workshop for Community Based Organisations, Civil Societies Organisations and People With Disabilities on Friday in Osogbo..

Prof. Raji while highlighting the patriotic role that the various organisations have played in electoral processes also implored them to direct their voter education in their catchment areas so that a meaningful improvement in the election process can be achieved.

"In the course of our preparations for the 2022 Osun gubernatorial election, we have had a number of contacts with various communities and have been assured of their maximum cooperation to ensure the election is conducted successfully," Professor Raji said.

Stating that the Commission will be a responsible and responsive agency that will play its role to ensure that the Osun election is free, fair and credible, Raji stressed the need for voter education, participation and inclusion of civil society and religious organisations and people with disabilities in the country.

"I therefore urge you to participate very actively in the exercise through purposeful contributions so that you can emerge better equipped at the end as the importance of the contributions of very critical stakeholders like you in the electoral process cannot be overemphasised.

"It is however imperative to indicate that all your contributions must be effective, professional, civil and purposely driven for the creation of a very peaceful environment for the conduct of electoral activities especially before, during and after the Governorship Election in the State.  

"You are therefore urged to remain neutral, nonpartisan and shun all forms of temptations from overzealous politicians.

"Furthermore, you must be patriotic and also ensure that all your actions are strictly based on public interest."

He therefore urged voters to remain neutral and impartial, avoiding all forms of temptation by overzealous politicians and ensuring that all actions are strictly in the public interest.

Professor Raji who assured that INEC will ensure that all votes count in the upcoming elections added that the process will be transparent and credible.

"I want to reassure you that INEC will ensure that votes count during the forthcoming Governorship election as a level playing ground would be provided for all candidates and political parties contesting this election."