INEC expresses worry over coming Osun governorship election

By Paul Dada

The Independent National Electoral Commission (Independent National Electoral Commission) is concerned about voter apathy in the coming Osun State governorship election.

The electoral body has, however, stepped up preparations for the exercise scheduled for 15 August 2026, with officials placing renewed emphasis on civic awareness, broader participation, and measures to reduce voter disengagement.

The development followed a joint strategy meeting held in Osogbo involving the Commission’s Voter Education and Publicity unit alongside its Gender and Inclusivity department. Officials reviewed outreach plans and identified gaps in public engagement ahead of the poll.

At the meeting, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, Oluwatoyin Babalola, said electoral planning must be viewed as an ongoing civic duty rather than a short-term exercise tied only to election day.

“Election is a process, not an event,” Babalola said, warning that inadequate voter education could undermine participation and weaken the democratic process.

She expressed concern that voter apathy remains persistent despite gradual improvements in election management. According to her, misinformation, declining public trust, political detachment, and poor access to reliable electoral information continue to discourage citizens from taking part in elections.

Babalola argued that voter education must be more direct and community-driven, rather than relying mainly on formal announcements and periodic campaigns.

“Citizens must understand not only when elections will hold but also why their participation matters,” she said.

To address this, she directed Electoral Officers and Assistant Electoral Officers across Osun State to intensify grassroots sensitisation efforts. She encouraged them to take voter awareness campaigns into marketplaces, transport hubs, schools, religious centres and other public gathering points, while also strengthening cooperation with traditional and religious leaders.

She further highlighted inclusivity as a core requirement for credible elections, stating that all eligible groups must be actively engaged.

“Inclusivity is not merely a policy objective but a democratic imperative,” Babalola stated.

She urged officials to ensure that women, young people, older citizens and Persons with Disabilities are not excluded from voter education drives or election-related activities.

The REC also instructed field officers to identify areas with historically low turnout and design targeted outreach programmes aimed at improving participation before the governorship contest.

Reaffirming the Commission’s position, she said INEC remains committed to strengthening public confidence and encouraging higher voter turnout across the state.

“Every eligible voter must know why voting matters, how to vote correctly, where to vote, and when to vote,” she said.

Political activity is already building across Osun State as parties and stakeholders position themselves ahead of the August 2026 election.