Before We Lynch Baba-Okanla: Exposing the Culprits Behind KWSIEC Election Irregularities

The recent local government election in Kwara State has been marred by controversy, but should Baba-Okanla, the Chairman of the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWSIEC), bear the brunt of the blame? I think not.

The main opposition party, PDP, refused to participate in the election due to a shortfall in ballot papers, while other parties went ahead with the voting process. Meanwhile, KWSIEC staff collated results from wards to local government levels and sent them to the state for announcement.

However, testimonies from other state electoral commission chairmen who witnessed the process attest to the election’s prudence and transparency. A case in point is the polling unit opposite the Kwara State Ministry of Health, where a report of inadequate ballot papers was promptly addressed with additional deployment.

In Offa Local Government Area, ballot papers were also deployed after initial shortages, demonstrating Baba-Okanla’s commitment to ensuring the election’s integrity.

Rather than blaming Baba-Okanla, we should focus on the actual perpetrators of any irregularities. It’s unfair to hold him accountable for issues beyond his control or knowledge.

Let’s set the record straight: Baba-Okanla is a man of integrity, dedicated to conducting free and fair elections. We should cease blaming him and instead seek truth and accountability.

While some may point fingers at him, it’s essential to recognize that he can’t be everywhere. His staff bears responsibility for the shortcomings.

Notably, Baba-Okanla promptly addressed reports of insufficient ballot papers, ordering additional deployment.

As a seasoned educator and former Kwara State Polytechnic administrator, Baba-Okanla’s record speaks to his integrity.

Before condemning him, consider the opposition’s role in taking him and KWSG to court, seeking his jailing for contempt. This smear campaign against Baba-Okanla and his family is unjustified. In fact, the opposition’s 2017 electoral misconduct was far more egregious.

Rather than blaming Baba-Okanla, we should criticize the opposition for resisting electoral reforms, perpetuating a flawed system that benefits them. Let’s set the record straight: Baba-Okanla is a man of honor, integrity, and dedication.

By examining these points, it becomes clear that Baba-Okanla is a man of honor, integrity, and dedication. No amount of negative writing can tarnish his reputation, especially when considering the opposition’s own misconduct.

Aribidesi Arigbabuwo from Offa Local Government of Kwara State.