IPAC Backtracks, Sets To Participate In Osun LG Election

• As OSIEC Chair Promises Credible Poll

Following the intervention of Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Osun State Inter-Party Advisory Council has agreed to participate in the forthcoming Local Government elections in the state.

Osun Defender reports that 16 political parties on Monday, announced their withdrawal from the election, alleging the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission of bias.

But the political parties while addressing a press conference on Tuesday, said they met with OSIEC chairman, Barr Hashim Abioye, adding that their differences have been resolved.

The vice chairman of IPAC, Bunmi Adetunji while speaking on behalf of the chairman, Pastor Victor Akande, noted that they saw the sincerity of the OSIEC chairman during the meeting, adding that they had agreed to work together.

He added that all 16 political parties have submitted their letter of intention to conduct their parties’ primary.

He said, “After a fruitful deliberation with stakeholders in Osun state, we are glad to inform the general public that we have rescinded earlier decision on the forthcoming local government poll.

“OSIEC Chairman, Barrister Hashim Abioye, has shown to have a listening ear and ready to work with us. We hereby wish to tell the good people of Osun that we are ready to participate in the election.

“We have submitted our letter of intention to conduct our parties’ primary election. We wish to appreciate Governor Ademola Adeleke and other stakeholders for their timely intervention on the matter.”

On his part, the chairman of OSIEC, Barr Hashim Abioye, said allegations that the commission was planning to use members of the People Democratic Party as electoral officers were not true.

Abioye promised to carry the political parties along but emphasised that no political party would nominate electoral officers for the commission.

Abioye also called for the support of Osun people, assuring that the election will be a free and credible one.