…Alerts security agencies over planned protest against commission

By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

The Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) has begun the disbursement of allowances to its ad hoc staff engaged for the 2025 local government election conducted by the commission.

The payment, which is being done in batches, commenced with the Supervisory Presiding Officers (SPOs), in line with the commitment earlier made by the commission’s chairman, Hashim Abioye.

Abioye, while addressing journalists, reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to fulfilling its responsibilities, adding that all genuine ad hoc staff would receive their due payments.

He dismissed allegations circulating on social media that OSSIEC was owing billions in unpaid allowances, describing such claims as falsehoods being spread by detractors.

“We at OSSIEC are committed to our duties. The recruitment of ad hoc staff was transparent and digitalised, with all records intact. Those making noise on social media are not our genuine ad hoc staff.

“It is the same individuals who opposed the conduct of the election and attempted to frustrate our efforts that are now spreading falsehoods about unpaid allowances.

“We have verifiable records of all engaged ad hoc staff, which are also in the possession of security agencies. None of our genuine staff will engage in misconduct because they understand the reasons for the delay in payment.”*

The chairman raised concerns over reports of a planned protest by individuals disguising as ad hoc staff, allegedly instigated by political elements seeking to cause a security breach in the state.

He urged security agencies to be on high alert, warning that any attempt to disrupt public peace would be met with the full weight of the law.

“No genuine ad hoc staff of OSSIEC will compromise the commission’s facilities or public peace.

“The payment process is ongoing and strictly electronic. There is no stress involved, and our staff are aware of this.

“Many have already received their payments and have expressed appreciation. In a short while, all eligible staff will be paid.”

He assured that the remaining categories of trained and duly engaged ad hoc staff would receive their allowances soon.