Osun Poll: INEC Registers 381,817 Voters
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recorded a total of 381,817 fresh registrations at the end of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Osun State.
This was disclosed by the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, during a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents Chapel in Osogbo on Tuesday.
Babalola said the commission achieved the figure with the support of stakeholders, particularly the media, whose contributions she described as vital to the success of the exercise.
She commended journalists for their commitment to truth and dedication to democratic values, noting that their consistent reportage had strengthened public trust in the electoral process.
“The role of the media is commendable and indispensable to the success of democratic exercises,” she said.
The REC urged media practitioners to intensify efforts in combating misinformation and disinformation, stressing that the commission recognises the media as critical stakeholders.
She added that INEC remained committed to conducting credible elections in line with the Electoral Act, the Constitution, and its operational guidelines.
According to her, the commission’s staff are fully prepared to deploy their experience and expertise towards the successful conduct of the forthcoming governorship election.
Babalola assured residents of the state that INEC under her leadership would deliver a free, fair, inclusive, and transparent election on August 15, 2026.
Addressing concerns about vote trading, she stressed that the commission does not engage in buying or selling votes, describing the act as a criminal offence.
“INEC does not sell or buy votes. The sellers and buyers are not INEC. Political parties and stakeholders must ensure voters act according to their conscience,” she said.
She warned that vote buying undermines accountability, noting that voters who sell their votes cannot hold elected leaders responsible for their actions.
The REC disclosed that the commission was working with relevant agencies, including the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, to curb the menace.
She also emphasised that sanctions exist for individuals found guilty of vote buying and selling.
Yusuf Oketola is a trained journalist with over five years of experience in the media industry. He has worked for both print and online medium. He is a thorough-bred professional with an eye of hindsight on issues bothering on social justice, purposeful leadership, and a society where the leaders charge and work for the prosperity of the people.
