The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured political parties, voters and other stakeholders that it remains neutral ahead of the August 15, 2026, governorship election in Osun State, insisting that it has no preferred candidate or political affiliation.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Osogbo on Wednesday, INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, said the Commission’s only responsibility is to conduct a credible election that reflects the will of the people.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission has no preferred candidate, holds no political allegiance, and seeks no outcome other than the lawful choice of the electorate. Our sole loyalty is to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the sovereign will of the Nigerian people,” Amupitan said.
He also urged residents of Osun State not to allow reports of violence or insecurity discourage them from participating in the election, assuring them that adequate security measures would be in place to protect voters and election officials.
According to him, democracy can only flourish when citizens actively participate in the electoral process, warning that voter apathy remains one of the biggest threats to democratic growth in Nigeria.
“Apathy is the silent killer of democratic progress, and we must confront it head-on. The finest technology and the best-secured polling units mean little if they remain empty,” he stated.
Amupitan appealed directly to eligible voters to reject fear and misinformation and come out peacefully to vote on election day.
“Do not allow fear, apathy, or misinformation to silence your voice. Turn out peacefully on Saturday, 15th August 2026, vote your conscience, and trust that this Commission will protect the sanctity of every valid ballot.”
He added:
“Our commitment is simple: no citizen should have to choose between their safety and their right to vote.”
The INEC chairman also called on accredited journalists to report the election responsibly and professionally, while urging both domestic and international election observers to carry out their assignments with fairness and objectivity.
He further reminded political parties and their candidates to respect the existing Peace Accord, warning that anyone involved in inciting violence or sponsoring political thugs would face the full weight of the law.
“Rhetoric that incites violence or the deployment of political thugs will be met with decisive state force,” he warned.
Amupitan concluded by encouraging all eligible voters to troop out in large numbers on election day and make their votes count.
“Let the streets of Osun State lead to the polling units on that day. Let your voices be heard, and let your votes count,” he said.
