Ghazali Ibrahim
Hashim Abioye, the chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), has expressed concern over the sealing of the commission’s headquarters in Osogbo by the Nigerian Police, calling it an unexpected action.
Despite this, Abioye confirmed that the local government elections were still underway across all polling units in the state.
He lamented the lack of visible police presence at polling units, adding that security was insufficient, despite warnings from the Nigeria Police advising against proceeding with the election due to security concerns.
Polling units along major roads, including Gbongan-Ibadan and Ogo-Oluwa, were found to be empty with no electoral officers in sight, although voters were still present.
Despite the state’s vehicle restriction order from 5am to 5pm, vehicles were observed moving around Osogbo, while police personnel were seen on highways.