OSSIEC Chair Warns Against Handing Over LG Elections to INEC
Hashim Abioye, Chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), has cautioned against transferring the responsibility of conducting local government elections from state electoral bodies to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He argues that such a move could lead to significant regrets for the Nigerian populace.
Speaking in Osogbo, the state capital, during a program hosted by the League of Veteran Journalists, Abioye expressed concerns about the potential negative impact of having INEC manage local government elections. He emphasized that federal agencies are already overwhelmed by their responsibilities, leaving states with little room to address local issues effectively.
Abioye criticized the idea of centralizing local government elections at the federal level, describing it as a misguided approach that ignores the unique needs and proximity of state and local electoral bodies. He pointed out that those advocating for the dissolution of OSSIEC are often the same individuals who have previously undermined the electoral system.
Despite the Supreme Court’s decision granting financial autonomy to local governments, Abioye noted that their administration remains closely tied to state governments. The ruling ensured that funds meant for local governments are managed directly by elected officials, but the state House of Assembly retains the role of appropriating these funds.
Abioye clarified that while the Supreme Court’s ruling excludes the state from managing local government funds directly, it does not eliminate the need for state oversight. Local governments remain dependent on the state House of Assembly for budgetary approvals and other administrative functions.
Addressing concerns about how local government funds will be spent, Abioye cautioned against the misconception that financial autonomy equates to unrestricted spending. He highlighted that local governments are still closely connected to state institutions, including the LG Service Commission and state executive bodies responsible for various administrative functions.
On preparations for the upcoming local government elections in Osun State, Abioye assured that the OSSIEC is making significant progress and is actively involving key stakeholders in the election pla
nning process.
