To ensure a free, fair, transparent, and credible electoral process, the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) has issued the Electoral Guidelines and Timetable for the 2024 Local Government elections.

During a Stakeholders' meeting at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, the Commission’s Chairman, Mr. Babatunde Osibodu, announced that the elections are scheduled for Saturday, November 16, 2024. The announcement was made on his behalf by one of the OGSIEC Commissioners, Mr. Tunji Akoni. Osibodu emphasized the Commission’s commitment to conducting an election that is not only free, fair, and credible but also sets a new benchmark in the history of Ogun State and Nigeria.

"We are guided by Section 197(1)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, which established the State Independent Electoral Commission, and Sections 14(1) and 15(e) of the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (as amended), which empower the Commission to oversee all Local Government Council elections in the state," he stated.

The Chairman urged all stakeholders to focus their efforts on gaining political power at the grassroots level, by going out to campaign and trade their manifestos to the electorates. He appealed  to aspirants to adhere strictly to the guidelines and stipulations throughout the electioneering period.

In response to questions from the audience, he assured that "the Commission will supervise all party primaries. We will be physically present  and ensure every contestant is given equal chance. Any shortchanged candidate at any ward level can also walk into our offices to complain and such shall a be treated legitimately in accordance with the guidelines. We also shall involve the media to monitor & track the activities for transparency throughout the electoral process. No candidate shall be discriminated against. As campaigns commence on August 9, 2024, I advise all political parties to engage with the electorate effectively."

Hon. Ganiu Hazmat, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, also appealed to all stakeholders and aspirants to contribute positively to the democratic process and avoid actions that could destabilize the polity.

In his goodwill message, the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland and Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, represented by the Aboro of Ibese, Oba Rotimi Mulero, reiterated the traditional institution’s support for all political parties. He advised all aspirants and stakeholders to cooperate with OGSIEC to ensure a smooth democratic process.