Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially inaugurated the new Chairman and members of the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC), tasking them with a crucial mandate to strengthen democratic foundations through impartiality.
A Charge for Independence and Godly Fear
The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday, 22 December 2025, at the Executive Council Chambers within the Governor's Office in Agodi, Ibadan. Following the administration of the oath of office, Governor Makinde emphasized the delicate nature of their assignment. He reminded the commission that the keyword in its name is "independent," urging them to live up to it fully.
"Though I nominated you, you were cleared by the House of Assembly. There are things in the name of the commission that you have to live up to... The keyword is independent. So, you have to be independent," the governor stated.
He admonished the members to discharge their duties with utmost transparency and the fear of God, as encapsulated in their sworn oath, to ensure justice for the people of Oyo State.
Upcoming Local Government Elections and Public Confidence
Governor Makinde used the occasion to announce a significant political event on the horizon. He confirmed that his administration would conduct another local government election before the expiration of his tenure in 2027. The tenure of the current local government administration is set to end in May 2027.
Expressing confidence in the support of the state's residents, Makinde said the election might coincide with the general election period, but his administration was unafraid. He relayed the perceived public sentiment: "We don't want Oyo State to go back to the old order. We don't want this music to stop."
He charged OYSIEC to build public confidence by ensuring the will of the people prevails through open and transparent elections at the grassroots level. "Governance is not a game, because governance will impact on our daily lives, it will impact on even destinies of a generation," he added, stressing the seriousness of the electoral mandate.
Proven Integrity and Government Synergy
Speaking on the selection process, Governor Makinde described the newly inaugurated chairman and members as people of proven integrity who would bring their wealth of experience to bear for the state's development.
He also extended gratitude to the Oyo State House of Assembly for their diligent role in screening and approving the nominees. The governor highlighted this as a demonstration of the productive synergy between the Executive and Legislative arms, a development he credited for the unprecedented harmony, growth, and progress witnessed in the state.
The historic event was attended by a high-profile gathering, including:
- The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal
- Former Deputy Governors, Engr. Hamid Gbadamosi and Barr Hazeem Gbolarumi
- Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Adebo Ogundoyin
- Former Speaker, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu
- Representatives of the Chief Judge of Oyo State and the President of the Customary Court of Appeal.
