The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission has expressed its readiness to strengthen collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission as part of efforts to improve the credibility and efficiency of elections in the state.
Chairman of the commission, Dr Babatunde Adeniyi, made this known during a visit to the Oyo State office of INEC in Ibadan. He stressed that closer institutional cooperation between both bodies is essential for deepening democratic processes, particularly at the grassroots level.
Adeniyi noted that the partnership would enhance knowledge sharing, technical support and overall electoral coordination, especially as preparations intensify for upcoming local government elections in the state. He emphasised the need for synergy in areas such as logistics, voter management and adherence to electoral guidelines.
According to him, learning from INEC’s experience in conducting national elections would significantly improve the quality of local polls. He maintained that the state electoral body is committed to delivering a process that is transparent, credible and widely accepted by stakeholders.
He also highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement, calling for sustained cooperation with political parties, the media and civil society groups to ensure public confidence in the electoral system.
The move comes as Oyo State prepares for its next round of local government elections, with the commission reiterating its determination to follow due process and uphold electoral standards.
INEC officials, in their response, welcomed the initiative and underscored the value of collaboration in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions, particularly at the sub-national level.
The renewed push for partnership reflects broader efforts to address recurring challenges in local government elections, including voter apathy, logistical gaps and concerns about transparency, while positioning both bodies to deliver more credible outcomes.
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