Osun Assembly slams INEC over sudden redeployment of REC

The Osun State House of Assembly has kicked against the recent redeployment of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr. Mutiu Agboke, ahead of the August 15, 2026, governorship election.

Dr. Agboke reportedly revealed his redeployment to Ondo State on one of the Commission’s official communication platforms on Wednesday evening.

Speaking at a press conference held at the House of Assembly Complex in Osogbo on Thursday, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, characterized the transfer as a “political maneuver.” He noted that similar administrative changes have not been observed in Ekiti State, despite its gubernatorial election preceding that of Osun on the electoral calendar.

Egbedun further alleged that more senior-level redeployments may be in the works. “We have credible information that further deployments are being planned and may extend to other key officials, including the Administrative Secretary, Electoral Officers, and ICT personnel across the state,” he said.

The Speaker expressed particular concern regarding the Ife Ijesha Senatorial District, where he alleged plans are underway to place specific political interests in key electoral roles such as returning officers and supervisors. He warned that any attempt to compromise the process would be firmly resisted by the people of the state.

“No amount of administrative changes or deployments will override the will of the people of Osun State,” Egbedun asserted. “The people are politically conscious, vigilant, and determined to ensure that their votes count.”

He called on the international community, development partners, and democratic observers to monitor the unfolding situation in Osun closely. The Speaker concluded by emphasizing that the Assembly’s only demand is a free, fair, and credible election conducted in strict accordance with the Constitution and electoral laws.