By Aaior K. Comfort

The Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) and leaders of political parties have urged the Federal Government not to withhold local government funds, despite the delay in conducting local government elections in the state.

During an interactive session at the OSIEC office in Osogbo on Tuesday, a joint communiqué was issued, emphasizing that the commission is in the process of organizing local government elections. The electoral body is following the guidelines laid out by the Electoral Act 2022 (Amended) and is operating within the legally mandated timeframe.

Victor Akande, Chairman of the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Osun, stated that OSIEC began preparing for the elections in January 2024, well before the Supreme Court ruling on local government elections and revenue allocation. He assured that Osun is acting within legal boundaries, noting that election notice must be given 360 days before the scheduled election date.

“We appeal to the Federal Government not to withhold local government allocations for Osun. OSIEC has already begun the election process since January, and everything is proceeding according to the law,” Akande said.

The communiqué also expressed full support for OSIEC, with political parties pledging to back the commission in conducting a credible and transparent election in February 2025.

OSIEC Chairman, Hashim Abioye, reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to delivering an election that would serve as a national reference point. He acknowledged the support from all 17 political parties present at the session, promising to meet their expectations for a fair election.