Osun State House of Assembly has expressed alarm over recent administrative changes within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning that the developments could compromise the integrity of upcoming elections in the state.
Addressing journalists in Osogbo on Thursday, Speaker Adewale Egbedun, speaking on behalf of the Assembly, voiced concern over the sudden redeployment of Dr. Mutiu Agboke, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Osun. He noted that the move appeared abrupt and lacked clear justification.
The Assembly disclosed it had received reports suggesting further redeployments of key electoral personnel were being considered. Those potentially affected include administrative secretaries, electoral officers, assistant electoral officers, and ICT staff across the state.
“The pattern of these movements has generated apprehension about possible interference in the electoral process,” the lawmakers stated. “It has come to our notice that there is a deliberate pattern of actions capable of influencing the conduct of elections in Osun State.”
Legislators pointed out that similar changes had not been observed in Ekiti State, which precedes Osun in the electoral calendar, raising questions about the rationale behind the focus on Osun. “It is instructive that Ekiti State has not witnessed such widespread redeployments. This raises serious and legitimate questions as to why Osun is being singled out,” the statement added.
The Assembly alleged it had credible information linking the developments to political interests, specifically mentioning a former governor in connection with the situation. “We have credible information linking these developments to the actions and influence of Adegboyega Oyetola,” the lawmakers said.
They stressed that administrative adjustments would not determine the outcome of elections, insisting that the electorate remained resolute in ensuring that their votes are accurately reflected. “No amount of administrative changes or deployment of officials will override the will of the people of Osun State,” the Assembly declared.
The lawmakers also claimed to have received reports of plans to assign politically affiliated individuals to sensitive electoral roles in parts of the state, particularly within the Ife-Ijesa Senatorial District. “We have reports indicating attempts to compromise the process through the use of party members in critical roles such as returning officers and supervisors. This is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” the statement read.
They urged that all electoral officials deployed to the state must adhere strictly to constitutional provisions and electoral laws in the discharge of their duties. The Assembly called on the international community, development partners, and election observers to monitor developments in Osun, emphasising the need for transparency and accountability.
Reaffirming its position, the lawmakers maintained that the people of Osun remained vigilant and committed to democratic principles, insisting that only a free, fair, and credible election would be acceptable.
Earlier reports indicated that Dr. Agboke was transferred to Ondo State on Wednesday, ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun. In a post on the Osun INEC social media platform, Agboke thanked stakeholders for their support during his tenure and wished them well under the new administration.
