The Oyo State President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Ayobami Olusegun Adeogun, has urged aspirants in the forthcoming union local branch elections to conduct their campaigns with maturity, dignity and a strong spirit of sportsmanship.
Adeogun gave the advice during an online interview session while speaking on the preparations for the elections across about 25 branches of the union in Oyo State.
He confirmed that the union leadership recently lifted the ban on electioneering campaigns to allow aspirants begin mobilisation and engagement with members ahead of the polls.
According to him, elections are an integral part of the union’s democratic culture and should serve to strengthen unity among members rather than create divisions.
“My sincere message to all aspirants is to imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship and conduct their campaigns with dignity, maturity and a deep sense of responsibility,” he said.
The NULGE president warned aspirants against engaging in campaigns of calumny, character assassination, religious sentiments and abusive language, stressing that all contestants must strictly adhere to the electoral guidelines guiding the process.
He also advised aspirants to focus their campaigns on ideas and programmes that would advance the interests of the union and its members.
Adeogun explained that during his own electioneering campaigns in 2021 and 2025, he adopted an issue-based approach by presenting his vision and mission statements to members through flyers and educational materials.
He therefore urged those contesting in the forthcoming elections to clearly communicate their plans for improving the welfare of members and promoting the image of the union.
The NULGE president further commended the level of interest shown by members, describing it as a reflection of the vibrancy and democratic spirit within the union.
“I must sincerely appreciate our veterans, leaders, stakeholders and all those who have expressed interest in serving the union at various contestable posts. Their willingness to keep the union’s flag flying high shows the commitment that exists within our great union,” he said.
Addressing concerns that the elections could create divisions among members, Adeogun appealed for restraint and mutual respect, reminding aspirants that the union would continue to exist after the electoral process.
“Campaigns will soon end but the union will remain. After the elections, we will still work together as colleagues and comrades in the same service,” he added.
He concluded by urging members to remain united and uphold the values of brotherhood and cooperation.
“Leadership positions will come and go, but the bond we share as members of this great union must remain strong. If we conduct ourselves responsibly, the election will strengthen our resolve to protect the welfare and interests of our members,” Adeogun said.
