The Osun State Local Government election on Saturday was marked by widespread low voter turnout and the absence of electoral officials in multiple polling units, despite a peaceful process in some areas..
News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the election, organized by the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), saw minimal voter presence and logistical gaps, with ad hoc staff and security personnel missing in polling units across Osogbo, Ile-Ife, and other regions as of 9:15 a.m.
It was gathered that Osogbo, units at Ogo-Oluwa, Alekunwodo, and Oja-Oba lacked both voters and officials, while voter lists were not displayed in several locations.
Governor Ademola Adeleke’s order restricting vehicular movement from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. was largely ignored, with free movement observed statewide.
However, police roadblocks were stationed on major roads. Markets and shops remained closed, contributing to an uneasy calm.
Contrasting reports emerged from Ede, Governor Adeleke’s hometown, where voters queued early at units like Obalaoye Grammar School and Oloba Atapara.
Presiding officers reported peaceful proceedings, with voting concluding as early as 8:30 a.m. in some areas.
Voter Nifemi Akingbala praised the process, stating, “The election has been peaceful—everyone should cast their vote without fear.”
Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, voted in Odo-otin LGA and commended OSSIEC for orderly conduct, urging citizens to “stand firm on the side of law.”
He expressed confidence that results would reflect voters’ will.
Critics highlighted systemic issues, including unaddressed logistical failures and the financial burden on citizens due to halted commercial activities.
OSSIEC has yet to comment on the irregularities.
