The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has formally declared the #OsunDecides2026 Situation Room closed following the successful conclusion of the Osun State Governorship Election and the declaration of the election result in the early hours of Sunday, 16 August 2026.

Addressing staff at the Situation Room, the Chairman expressed profound appreciation for their dedication, sacrifice and professionalism throughout the electoral process. He commended staff at the Commission’s Headquarters, Osun State and Local Government offices, as well as personnel deployed to the field, particularly those who worked at the polling units and members of the technical teams.

He acknowledged the long hours put in by staff, noting that many sacrificed time with their families and worked under demanding conditions to support the successful conduct of the election and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process. He also attributed the peaceful atmosphere that prevailed during the election to the grace and protection of Almighty God.

The Chairman described the Osun election as a milestone, not a destination, stressing that the lessons and experience gained must inform the Commission’s preparations for the 2027 General Election. He urged staff to sustain a higher level of vigilance, transparency, professionalism and commitment, while maintaining strict neutrality in the discharge of their responsibilities.

He further called on staff to remain committed to the Commission and to recognise the important role INEC plays in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy. “Let us learn from our experience, refine our strategies and approach the upcoming national task with renewed vigour and absolute neutrality. Let us remain steadfast in our duty, knowing that we are the gatekeepers of our nation’s democracy,” he said.

The Chairman thereafter formally declared the #OsunDecides2026 Situation Room closed, bringing to an end the Commission’s central monitoring and oversight operations for the Osun State Governorship Election.