Oyo State Electoral Commission Excludes Amotekun from Upcoming Election

The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) has declared that it will not engage the Western Nigerian Security Network (WNSN), also known as Amotekun, in the conduct of the forthcoming election. OYSIEC chairman, Isiaka Olagunju, made this declaration on Thursday during a guest platform program organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents Chapel.

The commission has already finalized plans to hold the local government election in April next year. Olagunju emphasized that instead of Amotekun, they will collaborate with the police, army, DSS, NSCDC, and even the correctional service to ensure a peaceful and transparent election.

In order to maintain security during the election, OYSIEC plans to employ approximately 18,000 personnel who will receive necessary training. Olagunju assured the public that the commission is fully prepared to conduct a fair and successful election with the support of the security agencies.

Explaining the decision not to involve Amotekun, Olagunju cited concerns about potential intimidation and insinuations. As the police are typically responsible for security matters during elections, Olagunju stated that they have already met with the police, army, DSS, NSCDC, and the correctional service to discuss the necessary arrangements.

The commission chairman revealed that Oyo State currently has over 6,000 polling units, with plans to deploy at least three personnel in each unit. This amounts to approximately 18,000 personnel who will be trained and engaged for the election process.

OYSIEC will also commence the screening of candidates from various political parties in the coming days. This screening process is aimed at ensuring that all candidates meet the necessary requirements and qualifications to participate in the election.

The exclusion of Amotekun from the election process stems from the commission's desire to maintain a neutral and non-intimidating environment for voters. By involving multiple security agencies, OYSIEC hopes to promote a sense of fairness and transparency throughout the electoral process.

The decision not to engage Amotekun might garner mixed reactions from different stakeholders. While some may perceive it as a wise move to prevent any potential bias or misuse of power, others might argue that the exclusion limits the capacity to deploy adequate security personnel. The effectiveness of this decision will ultimately be seen during the election.

As the preparations for the local government election in Oyo State progress, it is imperative that the security arrangements put in place by OYSIEC are sufficient to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process. The collaboration between the commission and multiple security agencies highlights the commitment to maintaining law and order during the election period.

Olagunju's announcement serves as a reassurance to the electorate that OYSIEC's primary focus is to conduct a transparent and impartial election, free from any form of intimidation or bias. With the involvement of various security agencies, voters can have confidence in the electoral process and exercise their democratic rights without fear.

As the commission proceeds with candidate screening and engages personnel for the election, all eyes will be on OYSIEC to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure that the local government election in Oyo State sets a positive precedent for future elections.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-07 News

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