The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the list of candidates and their running mates for the upcoming Osun State governorship election, confirming that 14 political parties met all submission requirements by the deadline.
In a statement on Sunday, INEC’s Public Affairs Officer, Musa Olurode, speaking for the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, said the publication follows the conclusion of party primaries and the closure of the online portal for candidate documentation. The commission verified that the listed parties complied with constitutional and electoral regulations before approving their candidates.
The compliant parties are: A, AA, AAC, ADC, ADP, APGA, APC, APM, APP, BP, NNPP, PRP, YPP, and ZLP. Their candidates’ Form EC9, academic certificates, and other supporting documents will be physically displayed for public inspection starting Monday, 16 February 2026. These documents will be available at the INEC state office, all 30 local government area offices, and the Area Office in Osun State.
This action is mandated by Section 29(3) of the Electoral Act 2022 and Item 4 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the election. INEC emphasized that only the 14 published parties will participate in the governorship poll, as they were the sole entities to fulfill all conditions within the prescribed period.
The commission urged political parties, candidates, and the public to review the displayed documents as part of the statutory transparency measures. Meanwhile, REC Agboke reaffirmed INEC’s dedication to conducting a credible election, stating the commission remains “firmly committed to the conduct of credible elections in accordance with the law and best democratic practices.”
The publication of candidate particulars is a critical step in Nigeria’s electoral process, allowing voters to verify the eligibility and backgrounds of those seeking office ahead of the vote.
