Imperative of administrative charges in Ogun councils’ elections

Sir: As a commission member at the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), I firmly believe our decision to introduce administrative fees for local government elections is a prudent policy move. This approach aligns with the state’s electoral laws and guidelines, ensuring fees are viewed as a necessary contribution to the costs of conducting free, fair, and credible elections at the grassroots level, rather than a barrier to entry.

On November 16, 2024, the citizenry will have another opportunity to elect leaders at the local government level in Ogun State for another three-year term. It will be free, fair and transparent by every measure of our constitutional responsibility. By focusing on administrative fees, we prioritise transparency, practicality, and sustainability. These fees cover essential electoral logistics such as background checks and verification of aspirants’ information, voter registration, staff training, and other key election processes. This approach distinguishes our model from others, where fees are often seen as financially burdensome.

Our administrative fees approach offers several benefits.

Firstly, it upholds democratic principles by maintaining candidate accessibility while ensuring electoral integrity and efficiency.

Secondly, it adheres to prevailing legal guidelines, justifying fees as necessary for efficient election management.

Thirdly, it promotes transparency by clearly outlining fee structures, mitigating confusion and potential disputes.

Finally, it encourages party participation by fostering commitment among political parties through investment in their candidates.

As our commission emphasises, “People tend to value what they invest in.” This sentiment resonates with our commitment to conducting elections that embody democratic ideals.

In conclusion, OGSIEC’s administrative fees approach exemplifies policy advocacy in action, striking a delicate balance between electoral integrity, accessibility, and sustainability. This prudent decision underscores our dedication to fostering a transparent and credible electoral process.

• Ayodele Bankole is Commission Member, Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), Abeokuta, Ogun State.