Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) yesterday disclosed that it would conduct elections in all the existing 33 local government councils and the newly created 35 local council development authority (LCDAs) in the state by February 11, 2017.

Chairman of the Commission, Jide Ajeigbe who stated this during a familiarization visit to the Headquarters, 2 Division of the Nigeria Army, Odogbo and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command said there was no going back on the conduct of the rescheduled council polls.

The OYSIEC boss explained that the Commission embarked on the familiarisation visits to all the security agencies in the state to ensure adequate security before, during and after the conduct of the election.
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Ajeigbe noted that for the commission to achieve free and fair election, it is imperative to beef up security for the lives and properties of all and sundry and consequently restated the commitment and preparedness of the Commission in conducting a transparent election.

He, however, canvassed for the support of the security agencies in maintaining law and order as well as peace which has been existing in the state.

In their separate remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) headquarters 2 Division of the Nigeria Army, Major General Kasumu Abudulkarim and the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Commandant John Adewole said the commission has no other obligation than to conduct election and it is essential to provide a conducive environment by abiding with the provisional guidelines of conducting local government polls.

While reminding of the sensitivity attached to elections in the country, Major-General Abdulkarim enjoined the commission to take cognizance of the police primary duty to maintain law and order.

The duo appreciated Governor Abiola Ajimobi for creating a peaceful environment in the state in the last five years and assured the commission of peaceful environment where the electorates can exercise their civic responsibilities. ”

Adewole said, “as a stakeholder to officiate incorruptible empire, we promise never to compromise on our job during and after the election. We are here to protect government assets and we shall guarantee this.”