Senior Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC), Hon. Saka Moshood, has commended the leadership qualities and outstanding contributions of the outgoing Chairman of OYSIEC, Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju (SAN).
Moshood, who was unavoidably absent from the valedictory ceremony described Olagunju as a visionary leader who strengthened the commission and entrenched credible electoral processes in Oyo State.
Speaking with westernmirror.com.ng via phone call after a valedictory event organized by the management of the commission in honour of Olagunju and his team, held on Tuesday at the OYSIEC headquarters in Ibadan, Moshood noted that under Olagunju’s stewardship, the commission achieved landmark successes.
The Oyo born grassroots political mobilizer highlighted the successful and peaceful conduct of two consecutive local government elections as key milestones that have deepened democratic governance at the grassroots in the state.
Moshood revealed that Olagunju displayed his cerebral prowess in bringing “reforms that have set new standards of electoral transparency, inclusivity, credibility and integrity.”
In his words: “Aare Olagunju has distinguished himself as a man of character, discipline, and integrity.
“He has left behind a legacy of transparency and accountability in the conduct of local government elections in Oyo State.
“I sincerely salute his commitment to democratic values and wish him well in his future endeavours, and most importantly, I look forward to future working relationship with him,” Moshood said.
Meanwhile, Olagunju in his farewell message earlier, had emphasized the need for professionalism in the management of electoral processes in Nigeria.
He equally called for the deployment of career officers with specialized training in election management, stressing that such practice would improve credibility and efficiency in electoral outcomes.
“Conducting credible elections demands the services of specialized personnel. The frequent transfer of OYSIEC staffers to other ministries is counterproductive.
“These are professionals with training in electoral management, and redeploying them wastes the expertise needed to sustain free, fair, and credible elections,” he said.
The Senior Advocate expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde for the confidence reposed in him and his team. He described OYSIEC as a special institution that requires continuity, technical competence, and dedication to fully deliver on its mandates.