Nigeria's INEC to conduct mock accreditation for Osun governorship election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Nigeria is preparing for the August 15 Osun governorship election by conducting a mock accreditation exercise on August 1, 2026. This preparatory step is designed to ensure a smooth accreditation process and to test the efficiency of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).

“

The mock accreditation would be conducted in selected polling units spread across the three senatorial districts of Osun State, covering Osun Central, Osun East and Osun West.

The exercise will simulate Election Day procedures in selected polling units across the state's three senatorial districts: Osun Central, Osun East, and Osun West. Specific local government areas have been designated within each district for the mock accreditation. The commission has emphasized that while the exercise will test accreditation, no voting will take place.

“

This exercise is designed to test the functionality and efficiency of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) under conditions similar to Election Day. There shall be no voting during the exercise.

INEC urges registered voters in the selected polling units to participate, stressing that only those with valid Permanent Voter Cards will be accredited. The commission has also extended assurances to political parties, the media, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders, affirming its dedication to conducting a free, fair, credible, transparent, and inclusive governorship election in Osun State.

“

INEC also assured political parties, the media, civil society organisations and other stakeholders of the commission’s commitment to conducting a free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive governorship election in Osun State.