The local government election in Osun State on Saturday saw a low voter turnout, with many polling units across different local government areas deserted.
Several locations, including Osogbo, there was an absence of the State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) ad hoc staff, security personnel, and voters.
As of 9:15 a.m., polling units in key areas such as Ogo-Oluwa, Alekuwodo, Olaiya, and Oja-Oba were empty. Additionally, the voters’ list was not displayed at some polling stations, raising concerns about transparency and preparedness.
Despite Governor Ademola Adeleke’s directive restricting vehicular movement from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., compliance was low as cars moved freely across the state. However, police roadblocks were set up along major roads.
In Ile-Ife, polling units also lacked both voters and OSSIEC officials.
Meanwhile, markets, shops, and shopping malls remained closed, indicating partial adherence to election-day restrictions. The situation was slightly different in Ede, the governor’s hometown, where some polling units recorded voter activity.
At Obalaoye Grammar School, Unit 2 Ward 4, some voters were present as early as 8 a.m. At Oloba Atapara Ward 1, Unit 6, a small number of voters awaited accreditation and voting.
One voter, Nifemi Akingbala, praised the process, describing it as peaceful and encouraging others to vote without fear.
Similarly, another voter, Mrs. Idowu Aminat, who cast her vote at 8:20 a.m., commended the electoral process for its orderliness. In Alajue 1, Ward Unit 8, voting concluded at 8:56 a.m., while at Station Road, Ward 8, Unit 6, the presiding officer, John Olawale, reported that voting ended at 8:30 a.m. and was followed by vote sorting.
The election was generally concluded early in most polling units, with some reporting peaceful proceedings.
Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, voted at Unit 5, Ward 9, Asi in Odo-Otin Local Government Area. After casting his vote, he commended OSSIEC for ensuring a peaceful election and praised voters for their participation.
Egbedun assured the electorate that the election results would reflect the people’s will.
