LG elections: KWSIEC tasks political parties on issue-based campaigns
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
The Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWSIEC) has charged political parties to prioritize issue-based campaigns as the local government elections approach.
Chairman of the commission, Mohammed Baba Okanla, made this call on Tuesday during a one-day stakeholders’ forum in preparation for the polls slated for September 21.
The event was attended by the APC, PDP, other political parties, civil societies, security agencies, and the media.
According to Okanla, “the political environment in the state, like many others, is dynamic and sometimes contentious, resulting in issues of political polarization, voter apathy, and the spread of misinformation.”
He urged political parties to conduct issue-based campaigns, respect electoral laws, and promote peaceful participation.
Okanla assured that the commission is ready to conduct a free, fair, credible, and transparent election, adding that measures have been put in place to uphold electoral integrity from voter registration to the final declaration of results.
He also called on the media, security agencies, and relevant stakeholders to partner with KWSIEC to conduct a successful election.
In his remarks, PDP Chairman Hon. Babatunde Mohammed described the initiative as a welcome development, adding that Kwarans have been yearning for council polls for nearly a decade.
He urged the commission to maintain the morale of the electorate by creating a level playing field for all political parties.
On his part, Alhaji Abdullahi Samari, the APC acting chairman, suggested that KWSIEC take the forum to all councils in the state for proper education and sensitization at the grassroots level.
