The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has called for the dismissal of Barrister Hashim Abioye as Chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC). The party’s demand comes just weeks before the state’s local government elections, scheduled for February 22, 2025.
In a statement released by Kola Olabisi, APC’s Director of Media and Information, the party argued that Abioye’s appointment was both illegal and unconstitutional, citing sections of the 1999 Constitution. The APC claims that Abioye is a registered member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and his political affiliations render him unsuitable to lead the electoral body.
The party has filed a legal challenge against Abioye’s appointment in the Federal High Court in Osogbo, where they argue that he was elected to the Osun State House of Assembly in 2019 on the PDP platform. They also claim that his appointment violates constitutional provisions regarding electoral body leadership.
In response, Sadiat Isiaka, the OSSIEC Information Officer, dismissed the APC’s allegations, stating that there was no cause for concern. She emphasized that the legal challenges against OSSIEC were unfounded and noted that the election process was moving forward without disruptions.