The Osun governorship election, scheduled for August 15, is being positioned by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as a critical test run for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, with Chairman Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan emphasizing its strategic importance in the country’s electoral calendar. During a courtesy visit to the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, on Friday, Amupitan highlighted that the state’s off-cycle poll serves as a mirror for evaluating INEC’s preparedness for the upcoming national elections. He stressed that ensuring a peaceful, credible, and transparent election in Osun is not just a local responsibility but a national imperative.
Prof. Amupitan outlined several key measures INEC has implemented to guarantee a smooth electoral process, including prioritizing peaceful conduct, efficient logistics, timely voting commencement, transparent result management, and prompt declaration of results. The commission has also extended the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection period and introduced online voter registration initiatives to boost participation and inclusivity. These steps, he noted, are part of INEC’s broader commitment to delivering free, fair, and credible elections across Nigeria.
Addressing rising political tensions in the state, the INEC chairman confirmed ongoing collaboration with security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, to ensure adequate deployment and prevent violence during the election. He underscored that no political contest justifies loss of life, stating, “The blood of any resident of the state is not worth shedding.” INEC, he added, will do everything possible to protect voters and staff on election day.
Amupitan appealed to the Ataoja to leverage his influence to promote peace among politicians and their supporters, recognizing the monarch’s significant sway over communities in Osogbo and beyond. He warned that election-related violence could discourage voter turnout and undermine democratic participation, urging all stakeholders to avoid actions that may lead to regret and division. “Osun is a shining example to other states, but what will they learn if there is violence and bloodshed?” he asked, reiterating INEC’s determination to uphold peace and enable free choice on August 15.
In response, the Ataoja welcomed the INEC chairman and called for a peaceful, free, and fair election across Osun State. He thanked the commission for its efforts and prayed for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance in fulfilling its constitutional duties. Earlier, retired Justice Moshood Adekunle Adeigbe, the Asiwaju of Osogbo, acknowledged the weight of the task before the new INEC leadership, especially given the significance of the Osun election. He assured that the Ataoja’s palace would continue promoting dialogue and peaceful coexistence despite existing security challenges.
As preparations intensify, the outcome of the Osun governorship election is expected to set a benchmark for future electoral processes nationwide, reinforcing the importance of unity, transparency, and civic responsibility in Nigeria’s democracy.
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