The recent local government elections in Oyo State, held on April 27th, marked a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape. Under the astute leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) orchestrated an electoral process that captivated the attention of political stakeholders across the 33 local government areas and 351 wards.
From the outset, the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) reassured all political parties of its commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible electoral process. This commitment laid the foundation for what promised to be a fiercely contested election, with both the ruling PDP and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) preparing for a showdown.
The decision by the APC to participate in the local government elections underscored Governor Seyi Makinde’s dedication to an all-inclusive electoral process. Despite holding the reins of power, Governor Makinde issued a directive for all candidates, party leaders, stakeholders, and faithful to work collaboratively towards securing electoral victory. The PDP candidates, buoyed by this directive, ran issue-based campaigns, emphasizing their vision for grassroots development and progress.
In contrast, the APC’s campaign strategy appeared centered on financial inducements rather than substantive policies. While party stakeholders and political office holders distributed money to constituents and candidates, the PDP focused on engaging voters with their manifestos and developmental achievements.
The APC’s reliance on federal government support failed to resonate with voters, who had already demonstrated their preference for Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration during the previous gubernatorial elections. Senator Teslim Folarin, the APC’s gubernatorial candidate in 2023, remained notably absent from the campaign trail, further highlighting the party’s disarray.
The return of the Accord Party’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate to the APC, prior to his appointment as Minister of Power, deepened the internal divisions within the APC. This rift, exacerbated by political maneuverings, underscored the party’s struggle to present a united front against the PDP.
Following the announcement of election results, the APC lodged allegations of voter disenfranchisement against the PDP, calling for the total cancellation of the elections. However, these claims were swiftly refuted by the OYSIEC, which received commendation for conducting a transparent and credible electoral process.
In the end, the PDP emerged victorious, securing all 33 chairmanship and 351 councillorship seats. As the newly elected officials prepare for inauguration, there is an expectation that they will hit the ground running, delivering on the promise of grassroots development and governance.
The just-concluded local government elections in Oyo State not only reaffirmed the political dominance of the PDP but also underscored the electorate’s confidence in Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration and its commitment to progress and inclusive governance.
Regardless of political affiliations, the collective aspiration is for a prosperous and inclusive future underpinned by democratic values.
As stakeholders navigate the post-election landscape, the focus remains on advancing Oyo State through accountable and people-centric governance, ensuring a brighter future for all residents.
By Asiwaju Yso Oladunni, a Member of the GSM Advocates
