State local government elections scheduled for January 16, 2027, with promises of a credible, transparent, and peaceful electoral process

The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) has scheduled local government elections for Saturday, January 16, 2027, pledging a transparent, credible, and peaceful electoral process across the state.

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The announcement was made in a statement on Thursday by Babatunde Adeniyi, Chairman of OYSIEC, following an inaugural meeting with the commission’s leadership and management team at its headquarters in Agodi, Ibadan.

Adeniyi explained that the council polls would run from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in all polling units across the state’s 33 local government councils.

He also confirmed that electioneering activities would conclude at midnight on Friday, January 15, 2027, while any run-off or re-run elections would take place on Saturday, January 23, 2027.

The OYSIEC chairman highlighted the legal framework underpinning the elections, citing the Local Government Law of Oyo State and Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022 (as amended), which empowers the commission to issue election notices not later than 360 days before a poll.

Adeniyi reminded the public that the tenures of all chairmen and councillors in the 33 local government councils would expire on May 23, 2027.

The statement called on political parties, candidates, and relevant stakeholders to support OYSIEC in delivering free, fair, and credible elections, stressing the commission’s commitment to maintaining peace throughout the process.

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Analysts say early announcement of the election timetable is intended to provide ample time for preparations, voter education, and security arrangements, reducing the risk of disputes on election day.