By Jeleel Olawale
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged political parties in Osun State to conduct peaceful, transparent, and law-abiding primaries ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Mutiu Agboke, made this appeal during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Commission’s state office in Osogbo on Tuesday. He said the engagement was part of INEC’s continuous efforts to ensure that all stakeholders fully understand and comply with the election timetable.
“We must continue to engage you on each item of the 2026 governorship election timetable so we can all be on the same page,” Dr. Agboke stated.
According to the REC, political parties are expected to conduct their primaries between November 24 and December 15, 2025, in line with Section 84 of the Electoral Act, 2022. He noted that while 19 political parties are registered nationally, only 18 are currently active in Osun State.
Dr. Agboke emphasized the need for parties to embrace internal democracy and avoid actions that could lead to pre-election disputes. “Free and fair elections begin with how parties conduct their primaries. Peaceful primaries promote unity and strengthen democratic values,” he said.
He reminded political parties that campaign activities have not yet commenced, citing Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act, which stipulates that campaigns should begin 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours before the election.
The REC also encouraged political parties to make use of INEC’s website for detailed guidelines on rallies, processions, and campaigns. He expressed concern that some party members do not even recognize their party logos, calling on parties to intensify voter education and discourage violence and vote buying.
“Election is a multi-stakeholder task. INEC alone cannot deliver a successful poll. Political parties must cooperate and educate their members. Vote buying has weakened our democratic values,” he warned.
Dr. Agboke revealed that as of October 24, 2025, a total of 151,593 registrants had completed their Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) in Osun State. He commended residents for their participation and urged others to register before the election.
He also praised INEC staff for their professionalism and dedication during the ongoing registration exercise, advising them to remain impartial and focused despite misinformation.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, CP Ibrahim Gotan, assured stakeholders of the police’s readiness to ensure credible, safe, and intimidation-free elections. He urged citizens to report any form of violence to the police control room via 08039537995 or 08123823987.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Osun State, Pastor Victor Akande, called on all political parties to uphold peace and the rule of law.
He warned against premature campaigns and appealed for rancour-free primaries to strengthen democratic processes.
“Without peace and adherence to the law, there cannot be a conducive atmosphere for democracy to thrive,” Akande said.
