The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured that the outcome of the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election will be determined strictly by the votes cast by the electorate, reaffirming its commitment to a credible, transparent, and free electoral process.
The Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mutiu Agboke, gave the assurance during an interview on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 11Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State.
According to him, preparations for the election are in advanced stages, covering voter education, personnel training, technological deployment, and inter-agency collaboration, all in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.
“Nothing will determine who wins the election except the votes of the people. The vote of the people will decide,” Agboke stated.
Preparations, Campaigns Underway
Agboke disclosed that the final list of candidates has been released, while campaigns officially commenced on March 11, with political activities now visible across Osun State.
He explained that INEC is simultaneously advancing internal preparations to ensure operational readiness, noting that all departments are actively engaged.
On voter registration, he revealed that the commission is decentralising Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) to the ward level to expand access and boost participation ahead of the election.
The REC emphasized the critical role of corps members in election duties, describing them as central to INEC’s operations.
He clarified concerns over late deployment lists, explaining that training precedes shortlisting.
“After training, we shortlist those who are capable. Corps members already know they will participate and have been prepared accordingly,” he said.
Technology: BVAS, IREV and Transparency
Agboke highlighted the deployment of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and INEC Result Viewing Portal (IREV) as key transparency tools.
He explained that while results will be uploaded electronically for public viewing, collation will remain manual from polling units to higher levels.
“IREV is for transparency. There is no electronic collation; what we have is upload of results,” he clarified.
On security, the REC said INEC is working closely with law enforcement agencies to identify flashpoints and prevent disruptions.
He stressed that election management is a multi-stakeholder process, with INEC responsible for logistics while security agencies ensure order.
Legal Framework, Litigation Issues
Agboke reiterated that the Electoral Act 2026 remains the governing law for the election, dismissing references to previous legal frameworks.
He also addressed concerns about INEC’s inclusion in election-related lawsuits, explaining that it is a procedural necessity rather than an indication of bias.
“Joining INEC in a case is a matter of law and procedure. It does not affect the credibility of the process,” he said.
Vote Buying, Stakeholder Responsibility
The REC cautioned against attributing all electoral malpractice to INEC, noting that issues such as vote buying fall within the enforcement responsibilities of security agencies.
“Election is a multi-stakeholder activity. Each agency must perform its role,” he stressed.
PVC Distribution, Voter Education
Agboke assured that Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) will be distributed to eligible voters before the election, adding that voter education campaigns are ongoing across all local governments in Osun State.
The 2026 governorship race is shaping up to be highly competitive, featuring incumbent governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party and Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress, alongside candidates from other political parties.
The contest has been marked by defections, shifting alliances, and internal party disputes, setting the stage for a closely fought election.
Despite the evolving political dynamics, INEC maintained that the credibility of the process remains non-negotiable.
“Credibility is not negotiable. The correct thing will be done,” Agboke assured.
As the election approaches, the commission urged voters to actively participate, emphasizing that the power to determine Osun State’s next governor ultimately lies with the electorate.
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