Early results from Saturday's governorship election in Osun State show the All Progressives Congress (APC) taking an early lead in several polling units, according to reports from the Nigerian news outlet Legit.ng. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun collating results, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) urging calm and patience among supporters as the process unfolds.
Early Results Favor APC in Key Polling Units
In the first set of results announced at various polling units across the state, the APC secured more votes than its main rival, the PDP. For instance, at Polling Unit 001 in Olorunda Local Government Area, APC polled 120 votes against PDP's 95, with the Labour Party (LP) trailing at 30 votes. Similarly, in Osogbo, the state capital, APC won 145 votes in one unit compared to PDP's 110.
These early figures, however, represent only a fraction of the total polling units in the state. Election observers note that the pattern could shift as results from other local governments come in. INEC has assured that the official results will be transmitted electronically to its portal for transparency.
PDP Calls for Patience, APC Expresses Confidence
In response to the early returns, the PDP's state publicity secretary, Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, urged party members and supporters to remain calm, stating that "the results are still very early and do not reflect the true will of the people." He expressed confidence that the PDP candidate would emerge victorious once all results are collated.
On the other hand, the APC campaign team welcomed the early results, with its director of media, Kola Olabisi, saying, "We are encouraged by the early numbers and believe this trend will continue as more results come in." He encouraged voters to await the final declaration by INEC.
Collation Process Underway, Security Tightened
INEC has set up collation centers in all 30 local government areas and the state collation center in Osogbo. The commission has deployed officials to ensure accurate tallying, and security has been intensified across the state to prevent any disruptions. According to a statement from the Osun State Police Command, no major incidents have been reported so far, and the exercise has been largely peaceful.
Voter turnout was reported to be moderate, with many voters casting their ballots early. The election is seen as a test for the ruling APC and the opposition PDP, both of which have campaigned vigorously in the weeks leading up to the poll.
Awaiting Final Declaration
As of the time of this report, INEC had not yet announced an official winner. The commission has promised to release the final results within 48 hours. Political analysts are closely watching the outcome, which could have implications for the 2027 general elections. The people of Osun State await the final declaration, with hopes for a peaceful transition of power.
