Osun REC Warns Political Parties to Conduct Lawful Primaries Ahead of 2026 Governorship Election

The Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, has called on political parties in the state to ensure that their primary elections are conducted strictly in line with the law as preparations intensify for the 2026 governorship poll.

Agboke made the appeal in a statement released on Monday in Osogbo by the commission’s Public Relations Officer, Olurode Musa.

INEC has fixed August 8, 2026, as the date for the Osun governorship election.

The REC emphasised that strict adherence to the Electoral Act 2022, as well as the commission’s regulations and guidelines, was essential to promoting transparency and reducing the surge of pre-election litigations that typically arise from poorly conducted primaries.

“Primary elections have often been one of the major sources of pre-election disputes. These litigations can be prevented if political parties comply with laid-down procedures,” Agboke said.

He urged parties to conduct internal elections that reflect the will of their members, stressing the need for a process that is free, fair, credible and peaceful.

“All aspirants should be given equal opportunities to participate. Parties must ensure openness, orderliness and a democratic process that genuinely represents the choices of their members,” he added.

According to Agboke, political party primaries for the 2026 Osun governorship election will hold between November 24 and December 15, as stipulated in the guidelines released by INEC’s national headquarters.

He assured that the commission is ready to provide technical support and oversight to political parties to ensure full compliance with the law.

The REC also called on security agencies and other stakeholders to work with INEC in ensuring a peaceful environment before, during and after the primaries.

“INEC will continue to closely monitor the activities of all political parties and will not hesitate to take necessary actions within the law against any party that violates electoral rules,” he said.