The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State has denied allegations that underage persons were registered as voters in Ede North Local Government Area.
The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Public Affairs Officer of INEC in Osun, Musa Olurode, in response to a social media post claiming that students in school uniforms were registered at the INEC office in Ede North on February 6, 2026.
INEC described the claim as “false and misleading.”
According to the commission, although some students of YTD Grammar School, Ojoro, Ede, arrived at the INEC office in their uniforms intending to register, officials on duty refused them entry in strict compliance with electoral laws.
INEC stated, “While it is correct that some students… were brought to INEC Ede North Local Government Office… the Electoral Officer and other officials on duty, acting in strict compliance with the law, refused them entry into the office premises. Consequently, no underage person was registered.”
The commission reiterated that only Nigerian citizens who are at least 18 years old are eligible to register as voters, in accordance with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2022.
INEC assured residents that it remains committed to maintaining the credibility and integrity of the voter registration process and will not tolerate any violations of the law.
It also urged the public to disregard the circulating social media post and rely on official INEC communication channels for accurate information.
Furthermore, INEC called on parents, guardians, school authorities, and community leaders to educate young people about the legal age requirements for voter registration.
The clarification comes as political activities intensify ahead of the Osun State governorship election scheduled for August 8, with several candidates, including incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke, contesting for the seat.
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