The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared that intimidation and coercion will not determine the outcome of the Osun State governorship election, promising strict legal consequences for anyone involved in vote buying, violence, or any attempt to undermine the August 15 poll.
Peace Accord Signed in Osogbo
INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN) made the declaration on Thursday during the signing of the Osun State Peace Accord in Osogbo, an event convened by the National Peace Committee. Political party leaders, security agencies, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders gathered to publicly commit to a peaceful and credible electoral process.
Each party contesting the election signed the accord, binding themselves to run orderly campaigns and honour the results. Amupitan reviewed the commission's pre-election preparations, noting that seven of nine scheduled activities on the electoral timetable had been completed. What remains are the close of campaigns on August 13 and the election itself two days later.
Over 2.3 Million Registered Voters
The INEC chairman confirmed that more than 2.3 million registered voters are eligible to participate. To give more voters the chance to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of polling day, the commission extended the PVC collection window to July 31.
Warning to Would-Be Offenders
Amupitan was direct in addressing those who might consider disrupting the process, saying the commission would not allow fear or force to shape the outcome. He warned that offenders, regardless of political affiliation, would face the full weight of the law.
Adeleke's Accusations
Previously, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke addressed a peace committee on Wednesday, July 30, 2026, accusing former governor and Marine Minister Gboyega Oyetola of directing police to wage violence against his government and party members ahead of the election. Adeleke said he nearly boycotted the gathering due to what he described as months of police-sanctioned attacks on Accord Party members, but chose to attend out of respect for the peace leaders present.
