The Leadership of the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations led by the Honourable Commissioner, Mr. Gbenga Oyerinde and the Permanent Secretary Mr. Sesan Ogundeko (mni) paid a courtesy visit to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at their office in Yaba, towards the forthcoming local government election.
Mr. Gbenga Oyerinde, the Honourable Commissioner stated that the visit aimed to foster collaboration and synergy between the two organisations, ensuring a free and fair Local Government Election in the state.
Highlighting the Ministry’s mandate in Intergovernmental Relations, specifically the THEMES Plus pillar of Security and Governance, Oyerinde stressed the importance of emergency preparedness plans and the Ministry’s role in supervising emergency agencies to drive the proposed collaborative efforts.
The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Sesan Ogundeko (mni) suggested closing the gap between the two organisations to foster more efficient and effective synergy. He emphasised the need to take Civic Rights to the grassroots level and promote democratic best practices.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner, Professor Ayobami Salami thanked the team for the visit and its efforts, reiterating INEC’s readiness to deepen the existing relationship between the two organisations.
Professor Salami emphasised the importance of synergy among stakeholders, including the Ministry, INEC, Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LAISEC) and other relevant organisations, to support democracy and ensure the success of the forthcoming election. He, therefore, proposed establishing a three-man committee to further collaborate and harmonise efforts.
Mrs. Adeyemi Showunmi, Administrative Secretary of INEC, speaking in the same vein, revealed the challenges faced by the Commission and areas where the Ministry can collaborate to address them.
The courtesy call demonstrated the Ministry’s commitment to supporting INEC in ensuring a free and fair election as both organisations look forward to continued collaborations.
