By Milcah Tanimu

The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) has announced that it will not involve the Western Nigerian Security Network (WNSN), commonly known as Amotekun, in the forthcoming local government elections in the state. OYSIEC Chairman, Isiaka Olagunju, made this statement during an event organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents Chapel.

Olagunju stated that the commission will collaborate with other security agencies, such as the police, army, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to ensure the security of the electoral process. He emphasized that OYSIEC aims to engage approximately 18,000 personnel to oversee the election, which is scheduled for April of the following year.

The chairman also revealed that the commission would soon begin the screening of candidates from various political parties participating in the local government elections. He explained that the decision to exclude Amotekun was made to prevent any perception of intimidation during the election.

In summary, OYSIEC has opted not to involve Amotekun in the upcoming local government polls and will instead rely on various security agencies to ensure a smooth and secure electoral process in Oyo State.