Esther ImonmionÂ
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged political parties in Osun State to conduct their primaries in a lawful, peaceful, and transparent manner ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Osogbo on 17 November 2025, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, stressed that internal party democracy is crucial to reducing pre-election disputes and ensuring credible candidates.
Dr. Agboke reminded parties that primaries must take place between 24 November and 15 December 2025, in line with Section 84 of the Electoral Act, 2022. He also warned against premature campaigning, noting that election campaigns are only permitted 150 days before polling day and must end 24 hours before the election, as stipulated in Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act.
He further urged parties to intensify voter education, particularly to discourage vote buying and electoral violence, and to comply with INEC’s guidelines on political rallies and processions.
On continuous voter registration, Dr. Agboke disclosed that as of 24 October 2025, a total of 151,593 new registrants had completed registration in Osun State. He commended INEC staff for their dedication during the registration exercise despite misinformation and challenges.
The REC expressed optimism that with the cooperation of INEC, political parties, civil society, and other stakeholders, the 2026 governorship election in Osun State would be peaceful, credible, and transparent. INEC has formally issued the notice of election to all parties and stakeholders, with copies placed in all 30 local government offices across the state and the area office in Modakeke.