The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned political parties in Osun State against violating electoral laws ahead of their forthcoming primaries, urging strict adherence to the timetable and regulations guiding the 2026 governorship election in the state.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Osun State, Dr Mutiu Agboke, gave the warning on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Olusegun Agbaje Media Centre, Osogbo.

Agboke reminded political parties that, according to the election timetable, party primaries must be held between November 24 and December 15, 2025, in line with Section 84 of the Electoral Act, 2022, which mandates political parties to nominate their candidates democratically.

“We appeal to political parties in the state to allow internal democracy to guide their conduct,” Agboke said.
“Free and fair elections begin with how parties conduct their primaries. A rancour-free process will not only reduce pre-election litigations but also strengthen party unity and legitimacy of candidates.”

The REC emphasised that campaign activities have not commenced, warning that any political party or candidate engaging in premature campaigning would be in violation of the law.

“As we speak, campaign activities have not commenced. Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act clearly provides that campaigns shall start 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours to the election,” he said.

“No political party is expected to campaign in whatever guise at this time.”
Agboke further reminded political actors to familiarise themselves with the Commission’s guidelines titled “Conduct of Political Rallies, Processions and Campaigns,” available on the INEC website.

Describing election management as a multi-stakeholder responsibility, the Osun REC appealed for greater collaboration between political parties, civil society groups, and INEC.

He particularly called on parties to intensify voter education and help combat vote buying and electoral violence.

“Do not leave voter education to INEC alone,” he said. “Your campaign should focus on discouraging violence and vote buying. These vices have weakened the value of our democracy. Voters must be allowed to freely make their choices,” he said.

On the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise, Agboke disclosed that 151,593 new registrants had completed registration as of October 24, 2025, and commended Osun residents for their participation.

He, however, urged eligible citizens who have yet to register to take advantage of the ongoing exercise to ensure they can vote in the upcoming election.

The REC also commended INEC staff in the state for their dedication and professionalism, urging them to remain committed despite attempts by mischief makers to spread falsehoods about the Commission.

“So many unfounded stories and fake news might be mischievously spread,” Agboke cautioned. “I implore our staff to remain professional in their duties so that, at the end, we shall all be vindicated.”

Agboke concluded by expressing optimism that with collective commitment from all stakeholders, the 2026 governorship election in Osun State would be peaceful, credible, and transparent.

“It is our hope that all stakeholders will conduct rancour-free primaries and engage in massive voter education to discourage violence and vote buying. Together, we can deliver a credible election in Osun State,” he said.