The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has described the upcoming Osun State governorship election as a critical test of its readiness for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, said this during a visit to the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, on Friday, noting that the poll is the last major off-cycle election before the national elections.
He explained that the August 15 governorship election would serve as a benchmark to assess the commission’s preparations for 2027.
Amupitan said INEC had put in place measures to ensure a credible exercise, including improved logistics, timely commencement of voting, transparent result management, and prompt declaration of results.
He added that voter participation is being encouraged through extended Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection and the introduction of online registration initiatives.
The INEC chairman also raised concerns about political tension in the state, stating that the commission is working closely with security agencies, particularly the police, to prevent violence.
“No political contest is worth the loss of lives,” he said, urging stakeholders to ensure a peaceful process.
Amupitan called on traditional institutions to support peace efforts, appealing to the Ataoja to use his influence to promote calm before, during, and after the election.
In response, Oba Olanipekun pledged support for a free, fair, and peaceful poll, while retired Justice Moshood Adekunle Adeigbe also urged political actors to embrace dialogue despite security concerns.
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