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2026: Ensure Credible Osun Election – Adeleke Campaign Council Tells INEC, Security Agencies

ByOlamilekan Adigun

PublishedMay 20, 2026

The Civil Society Committee of the Imole Campaign Council has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the media to uphold neutrality and professionalism ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State.

Speaking at an engagement in Osogbo on Wednesday, the Chairman of the Committee, Funmiso Babarinde, said INEC must demonstrate impartiality and ensure transparency throughout the electoral process.

Babarinde urged the electoral body to release the updated voters’ register to all political parties ahead of the poll.

He also called for a timely deployment of both sensitive and non-sensitive materials, proper training of ad hoc staff, and optimal functioning of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System.

“The credibility of the forthcoming election rests heavily on INEC’s preparedness and impartiality. Osun people expect INEC to release the updated voters’ register to all political parties well ahead of the election to allow for verification.

“INEC must ensure that results are transmitted transparently from polling units in line with the Electoral Act. Most importantly, INEC must remain visibly neutral. The Commission cannot be seen to favour any party, candidate, or interest,” he stressed.

Addressing security agencies, Babarinde warned against partisanship and intimidation of voters.

“Your constitutional duty is to secure lives, property, and the electoral process—not to intimidate voters or serve partisan interests,” he said.

He called on the Inspector General of Police and other security chiefs to issue clear directives against unlawful arrests and the deployment of officers for political purposes.

“Where violations occur, perpetrators must be arrested and prosecuted without delay,” he added.

Babarinde also charged the media to act as the watchdog of democracy by reporting accurately and resisting sensationalism.

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“We urge you to report with accuracy, avoid sensationalism, and resist the temptation to become megaphones for falsehoods. Your role in educating voters, fact-checking claims, and documenting the process is vital to building public confidence,” he said.

He commended Governor Ademola Adeleke’s performance in office, stating that his focus on infrastructure and welfare had boosted public confidence since 2022.

“There is no doubt that Governor Adeleke’s focus on infrastructure and welfare has significantly increased his popularity since 2022, when he defeated the incumbent governor. Three years on, I believe you will agree that he deserves a second term,” he said.

The event was attended by civil society organisations, media practitioners, and political stakeholders supporting the re-election bid of Governor Adeleke.

Olamilekan Adigun

Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.