By Abubakar Abraham
The Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC), has taken it’s sensitization campaign on the planned local council elections scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2026, to the grassroots through traditional rulers, with a call on them and other leaders to champion the fight for transparent and credible polls.
The KOSIEC team made the call during a sensitisation visit to the palace of the Obaro of Kabba, HRM, Oba (Dr.) Solomon Dele Owoniyi, who also serves as the Chairman of the Okun Traditional Council (Obaro Oweyomode).
The Obaro was represented by his first-class chiefs: Obadofin of Oweland, Chief Olusegun Are, and Obagemu of Oweland, Chief Michael Ibilaye.
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The royal fathers warmly welcomed the KOSIEC delegation, underscoring the pivotal role of traditional institutions in promoting peaceful electoral processes across Okunland and Kogi State.
KOSIEC Chairman Hon. Mamman Nda Eri delivered the opening speech and provided a comprehensive electoral elucidation.
He detailed the provisions of the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission Law, 2025, including candidate eligibility, nomination processes, campaign guidelines, and measures to prevent electoral irregularities.
The chairman stressed the need for all stakeholders to uphold these rules to foster fair competition and public confidence in the polls for chairmen and councillors in the state’s 21 local government areas.
Highlight of the visit was the presentation of by KOSIEC team of electoral guidelines, souvenirs, and informational materials to serve as reference tools for guiding traditional leaders, community influencers, and prospective candidates in the upcoming elections.
Speaking on behalf of the Obaro, Obadofin Chief Olusegun Are expressed appreciation for the sensitization visit, describing it as a proactive and commendable step toward achieving credible elections.
He pledged to disseminate the instructions and guidelines provided by KOSIEC to all incoming local government candidates contesting for chairmanship positions in the area.
“This engagement demonstrates KOSIEC’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency. We will ensure that these electoral principles reach every aspirant to support a peaceful and credible process,” Chief Are stated.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Hon. Alfred Bello, who drew an insightful analogy comparing the KOSIEC Chairman to a football referee. “Just as a referee ensures a level playing field for all teams without favoritism, Hon. Mamman Nda Eri and his team are working diligently to create a fair electoral environment for every candidate,” he remarked.
Hon. Bello commended the chairman for his transparency and dedication, thanking the palace authorities, royal fathers, and all participants for their hospitality and support.
The sensitization tour to Kabba highlights KOSIEC’s strategic outreach to traditional rulers and stakeholders, aiming to build broad consensus and awareness ahead of the October 2026 local government elections.
