Osun APM expresses dissatisfaction as IPAC backtracks decision to withdraw from LG elections

The Osun State chapter of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) has expressed dissatisfaction and disappointment following the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC)’s decision to reverse its withdrawal from the upcoming local government elections, slated for February 22, 2025.

Nigerian Tribune reports that Osun IPAC, in an announcement by its chairman, Victor Akande, initially declared its withdrawal from the 2025 local government poll due to a loss of confidence in the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC).

However, on Tuesday, the group reversed its earlier decision to withdraw from the elections.

In a statement signed by APM chairman Wale Adebayo on Wednesday, he urged IPAC to maintain its stance on withdrawing from the elections if they are to be conducted by OSSIEC Chairman Barrister Hashim Abioye, whom Adebayo claims is a card-carrying member of the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Adebayo argued that Abioye’s affiliation with a political party disqualifies him from conducting a free, fair, and credible election. He emphasized that “it is disappointing to see that IPAC has backtracked on its earlier threats, citing the OSSIEC Chairman’s readiness to work with IPAC.”

He added that this situation raises serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the ability of opposition parties to participate.

Adebayo further stated that APM would not be deterred by this development and would continue to advocate for a transparent and accountable electoral process. He called on the OSSIEC Chairman to step down and allow the appointment of an independent and impartial electoral commissioner.

“As the Chairman of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and the immediate past Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Osun State, I am deeply disappointed and dissatisfied with the recent decision of IPAC to rescind its earlier decision to boycott the upcoming local government elections.

“On July 15th, 2024, IPAC unanimously agreed to withdraw from the Osun local government elections due to the fact that the Chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), Barrister Hashim Abioye, is a card-carrying member of the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP). As a party committed to the democratic process, we firmly believe that Barrister Hashim Abioye is not legally and morally qualified to conduct a free, fair, and credible election.

“It is truly disappointing to see that IPAC has now backtracked on its earlier decision, citing the OSSIEC Chairman’s readiness to work with them. This raises serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the ability of the opposition parties to participate on a level playing field.

“While we acknowledge that boycotting elections may not be the most democratic approach, it is essential that the electoral process remains transparent and accountable. The APM will not be deterred by this development and will continue to advocate for a transparent and accountable electoral process.

“We call on the OSSIEC Chairman, Barrister Hashim Abioye, to step down from his position and allow for the appointment of an independent and impartial electoral commissioner to oversee the commission.

“Together, we must ensure that the voice of the people is heard and that their democratic rights are protected,” the statement reads.