The Osun State local government elections held on Saturday were characterized by low voter turnout and the absence of electoral officials in several polling units across the state.
Despite assurances from the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) regarding the preparedness for the election, widespread reports of missing ad hoc staff and empty polling stations cast doubt on the credibility and efficiency of the process.
Our correspondents who monitored the elections across various local government areas observed that many polling units remained deserted well into the morning. Areas such as Ogo-Oluwa, Alekuwodo, Olaiya, and Oja-Oba in Osogbo recorded minimal electoral activity as of 9:15 a.m., with no sight of OSSIEC officials, security personnel, or voters.
Similarly, in Ile-Ife, our reporters noted that several polling units lacked both voters and electoral officers, further exacerbating concerns over the legitimacy of the election process.
Additionally, the voters’ register was reportedly absent in some polling units, raising further questions about the preparedness of the electoral commission.
In contrast, Ede, the hometown of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, experienced a relatively higher voter turnout compared to other parts of the state. At Obalaoye Grammar School (Unit 2, Ward 4), voters were seen queued as early as 8:00 a.m., while at Oloba Atapara (Ward 1, Unit 6), a small but notable number of voters awaited accreditation.
Some voters expressed satisfaction with the process, describing it as peaceful. A voter, Mr. Nifemi Akingbala, commended OSSIEC for the smooth conduct of the election, urging citizens to participate without fear. Similarly, Mrs. Aminat Idowu confirmed that she successfully cast her vote at 8:20 a.m., praising the electoral body’s organization.
In some polling units, the process concluded much earlier than expected. For instance, at Alajue 1, Unit 8, voting ended by 8:56 a.m., while at 150A Station Road, Ward 8, Unit 6, elections wrapped up at 8:30 a.m., with officials proceeding to sort and count ballots.
Despite an official restriction on vehicular movement from 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., as directed by Governor Adeleke, reports indicated that many residents did not adhere to the directive. Vehicles moved freely across various towns, with no major restrictions observed. However, there were sporadic roadblocks mounted by the police along key roads.
The Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, participated in the election at Unit 5, Ward 9, Asi, in Odo-Otin Local Government Area. After casting his vote, he praised OSSIEC for ensuring a peaceful electoral process and reassured the electorate that the results would reflect the will of the people.
While some stakeholders lauded the electoral body for maintaining order where elections were conducted, the widespread absence of officials and low turnout of voters in key areas have raised serious concerns about voter participation and the credibility of the process.
