Ogun State’s Opposition Party Berates OGSIEC Over Election Fee

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State has voiced its strong opposition to the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission’s (OGSIEC) decision to charge administrative fees of N250,000 per chairmanship candidate in the upcoming November 16 local government elections. The fees will also apply to councillorship candidates, with females paying N100,000 less than their male counterparts.

In a statement, OGSIEC Chairman Babatunde Osibodu clarified that the administrative charges are directed at political parties, not individual candidates. He stated that the commission is legally empowered to impose the fee, having sought legal counsel and received approval from the State House of Assembly. Osibodu believes that the fee will boost participation and commitment among political parties, encouraging more parties to take part in the election.

However, Sunday Solarin, Secretary of the PDP opposition party, has vehemently condemned the move, describing it as “obnoxious and sheer exploitation” that will be resisted. Solarin questioned why OGSIEC is adding to the current hardship faced by the people, and urged the commission to act responsibly and familiarize itself with the true position of the law.

OGSIEC’s decision to impose administrative fees has sparked controversy, with many questioning the motive behind the move. Critics argue that the fees will unfairly burden political parties, making it difficult for smaller parties to participate in the election.

In response to OGSIEC’s claims that the fee aims to boost participation and commitment among political parties, Solarin posed a question: “How much did Governor Dapo Abiodun and APC pay to INEC to participate in the election that brought them to power?” He also urged OGSIEC to conduct a free and fair election without adding revenue exploitation to its capacity to perform its statutory obligations.

The PDP opposition party has vowed to resist OGSIEC’s decision, arguing that the move is an attempt to stifle democracy and undermine the people’s rights. The controversy surrounding OGSIEC’s decision to impose administrative fees has raised questions about the commission’s commitment to free and fair elections in Ogun State.