A civil society organisation, the Cedars for Human Welfare Initiative (CEHUWEI), has paid an advocacy visit to the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic governance and electoral transparency in the state.
The visit, which brought together members of the commission’s leadership and CEHUWEI’s delegation, focused on building strategic collaboration ahead of future local government elections.
Speaking during the meeting, representatives of CEHUWEI led by it’s Executive Director, Dr. Oluwabukola Olatunji expressed appreciation to the commission for its openness and continued efforts to improve the conduct of elections in Oyo State. The organisation highlighted its work across key areas including democracy and governance, education, and development, noting its commitment to promoting credible electoral processes.
CEHUWEI recalled its active role during previous elections, where it participated in election observation and coordinated civil society situation rooms. Through these efforts, the organisation was able to relay real-time information from various polling areas, enabling prompt responses from electoral officials where challenges arose.
The group also referenced its “Election Conversation” initiative, a stakeholder engagement platform designed to facilitate dialogue between the electoral body and the public. While acknowledging that a post-election session was not held due to funding constraints, CEHUWEI appealed for technical and financial support from the commission to sustain and expand such engagements in future election cycles.
According to the delegation, the aim is to deepen voter education, strengthen community participation, and reduce electoral irregularities by raising grassroots “champions” who can support credible elections within their communities.
In response, OYSIEC leadership, led by the Chairman, Dr. Babatunde Afeez Adetunji, welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed the commission’s readiness to work with credible civil society organisations. The commission emphasised the importance of honest and responsible election observation, urging groups to report findings accurately and constructively.
Dr. Adetunji noted that while support for civil society initiatives may be considered, such assistance would depend on demonstrated impact and alignment with the commission’s mandate.
He further disclosed that OYSIEC has already commenced preparations for upcoming elections, including stakeholder consultations with political parties under the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), engagement with security agencies such as the Nigeria Police, and coordination with relevant institutions to ensure a smooth electoral process.
The commission assured stakeholders of its commitment to transparency, adherence to electoral laws, and continuous engagement with partners.
Both parties agreed that sustained collaboration between electoral bodies and civil society organisations remains essential to achieving credible, inclusive, and peaceful elections in Oyo State.
The Chairman was joined by Commissioners, the Permanent Secretary, the Director of Finance and Accounts, the Director of Supplies, and other senior management staff of OYSIEC. Restructur the headline
