Avoid political influence, Adeleke warns corps members ahead of Osun poll
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke urged National Youth Service Corps members to remain apolitical ahead of the Aug. 15 governorship election.
- He emphasized the need for neutrality and professionalism, especially for those involved in the electoral process.
- A total of 3,000 corps members were deployed to the state for the orientation course.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has called on National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to maintain strict neutrality in the upcoming August 15 governorship election. Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Batch B, Stream I Orientation Course, Adeleke stressed the importance of professionalism and apolitical conduct for corps members who may participate in electoral duties.
Represented by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Prof. Moruf Adeleke, the governor warned against actions that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process. He urged the corps members to resist undue influence and uphold the regulations of both the NYSC and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Adeleke assured the corps members of his administration's commitment to their welfare and safety, encouraging them to serve with patriotism and dedication.
I urge you, as corps members, to remain apolitical and professional in the discharge of your electoral duties. Do not allow the credibility of our electoral process to be marred by your actions. The state is looking up to you to help ensure the integrity of the election.
Mr. Ekeng Kubiangha, the NYSC Coordinator in Osun State, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the critical role of stakeholder integrity in election credibility. He disclosed that 3,000 corps members, comprising 1,600 females and 1,400 males, are participating in the orientation. Kubiangha implored the corps members not to yield to any form of inducement or pressure, emphasizing that adherence to INEC guidelines is crucial for a peaceful, free, fair, and credible election.
Both the governor and the NYSC coordinator also encouraged the corps members to embrace Nigeria's diversity, build cross-cultural friendships, and comply with camp rules to maximize their orientation experience and contribute to national development.
As corps members who may be called upon to participate in the electoral process, I urge you to remain apolitical, impartial and professional in the discharge of your responsibilities. Do not allow yourselves to be influenced by any form of inducement or undue pressure. Adhere strictly to INEC guidelines.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.