INEC Osun Stakeholder Meetings for Election Credibility

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has intensified stakeholder consultations across Osun State, urging all parties to uphold their responsibilities for a credible governorship election. The commission’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Mutiu Agboke, delivered this message during a series of meetings in Osogbo, Ede North, and Ede South local government areas.

Addressing representatives from political parties, transport unions, security agencies, and civil society organisations, Dr. Agboke stressed that electoral credibility hinges on collective adherence to guidelines. “Nobody will win any election in Osun State without the votes of the people,” he stated, underscoring that no candidate can be declared a winner without a genuine voter mandate.

The REC explained that holding meetings in all local government areas ensures engagement within communities. He described the upcoming election as “special,” calling for a united approach among stakeholders to guarantee a peaceful outcome. “Election activities must be jointly handled by all stakeholders to guarantee success,” he added, noting that decentralised consultations are vital for effective planning and coordination.

To strengthen accountability, Dr. Agboke announced that all ad-hoc staff will be required to sign an affidavit of commitment before deployment. He warned that any breach of this oath will lead to prosecution. The REC also issued a stark warning to electoral officers, including presiding and collation officers, against result tampering. “We will trace any altered result to the responsible official, and such a person will be arrested and prosecuted,” he said.

Similarly, members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) were urged to refrain from partisan activities. INEC will collaborate with the union strictly in an organisational capacity, and a situation room will be established to monitor compliance on election day.

The REC acknowledged challenges with misinformation since his appointment but affirmed that these would not derail preparations. Security agencies present at the forums reassured stakeholders of adequate arrangements to maintain peace before, during, and after the polls. Local electoral officers highlighted specific concerns, including locations prone to overcrowding, drug-related activities, and thuggery—particularly in parts of Ede North—calling for targeted security interventions.

These consultations reflect INEC’s proactive strategy to foster a transparent and secure electoral process in Osun, with ongoing collaboration among all stakeholders identified as critical to achieving a peaceful and legitimate outcome.