INEC to Parties: Conduct Peaceful, Lawful Primaries Ahead of Osun 2026 Poll

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged political parties in Osun State to ensure peaceful, transparent and lawful primaries ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Mutiu Agboke, made the appeal at a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Commission’s state office in Osogbo on Tuesday.

Agboke said the parley formed part of INEC’s continuous engagement to ensure that activities in the timetable are understood and strictly adhered to.

According to him, 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 parties are registered nationally, only 18 are currently operational in Osun, urging them to organise themselves for free and fair primaries that uphold internal democracy.

Agboke warned against early campaigns, reminding parties that by Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act, campaigns are to begin 150 days before polling and end 24 hours to the election.

He advised parties to consult INEC’s website for guidelines on rallies and processions and to intensify voter education, lamenting that many party members cannot identify their party logos.

The REC also decried vote-buying, saying the menace has eroded democratic values.

He disclosed that as at October 24, 2025, a total of 151,593 registrants had completed continuous voter registration in Osun and urged unregistered residents to enrol.

Agboke commended INEC staff for professionalism and cautioned stakeholders against spreading misinformation.

Also speaking, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, warned against electoral offences and assured that no voter or official would be intimidated during the exercise. He urged residents to report violence to the control room via 08039537995 or 08123823987.

The Osun Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Pastor Victor Akande, appealed for adherence to rule of law, alleging that some parties have already commenced campaigns in violation of extant regulations. He called on parties to conduct rancour-free primaries.