Oyo state Governor Seyi Makinde has dissolved the board of the state electoral umpire christened Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) with immediate effect.
The dissolution letter dated July 1st addressed to the Chairman of the Board noted the governor is aware the tenure of the members has not expired but the government will offset all the salaries and entitlements of the members for the remaining period of the tenure.
The letter signed by the Head of Service, Mrs. Amidat Agboola, however directed that all the property of the commission in the custody of members be handed over to the most senior director in the commission.
The development could be said to be in fulfillment of the plan of the new government to reconstitute the state electoral body with a promise to conduct local government elections latest by the first quarter of next year.
The letter entitled “Dissolution of Board of Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission” reads in parts:
“I wish to refer to the above subject matter and inform you that His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde has approved the dissolution of the Board of Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission with effect from 1st July, 2019.
“While noting the fact that your tenure has not expired, the state government is prepared to offset the salaries and allowances payable to you till the expiration of your tenure.
“His Excellency wishes you the best in your future endeavours.
“Kindly hand over all property of the state government in your care to the most senior director in your commission.”
Former Governor Abiola Ajimobi had on Friday, June 17, 2016 appointed the eight- member board chaired by Mr John Ajeigbe to conduct elections into the 33 local governments and 35 local council development areas.