The Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSSIEC, has disclosed plans to recruit over 8,000 adhoc staff ahead of the local government elections slated for 22 February, 2025.

The move is part of the commission’s efforts to ensure seamless electoral operations across the state.

OSSIEC Chairman, Hashim Abioye spoke on Thursday in Osogbo during a visit by members of the Osun State House of Assembly Committee on Local Government led by its Chairman, Olujimi Asagade.

He highlighted that preparations for the polls were nearing completion.

He assured stakeholders of the commission’s readiness to conduct credible and transparent elections.

While reiterating the Commission’s autonomy, he noted the absence of external interference, particularly from the state’s executive arm and the state governor, Ademola Adeleke.

He also stressed his commitment to maintaining impartiality throughout the electoral process.

He said, “Regarding our preparation for the elections, I can tell you we are fully prepared. We are embracing technology to recruit adhoc staff to ensure a more efficient system.

“If we didn’t do that, our premises would have been filled with a crowd. We will need over 8,000 adhoc staff for the elections.”

Abioye who noted that a functioning portal had been established for recruitment and other preparatory activities, added that infrastructure had been improved within the Commission’s premises

“While the election process would not be fully electronic, the commission has implemented technology for monitoring activities at polling units.

“The results will not be transmitted electronically, but the facility we have on the ground allows us to monitor happenings in every polling unit. We have digital equipment to do that,” he added.

Reaffirming OSSIEC’s independence, Abioye stated: “I can tell you most sincerely that Governor Ademola Adeleke is not interfering with our duties. We are also carrying along the Inter-Party Advisory Council in all our activities to build trust.

“We appreciate the House for giving us a good law to operate with. The law made for local government elections in Osun has become a template for other states.”

In response, Asagade praised the OSSIEC Chairman for laying a strong foundation for the commission and assured him of the Assembly’s readiness to support the body in conducting an election that would be acceptable to all stakeholders.