Osun 2026: Accord Party Demands Credible Election from INEC

The Accord Party's campaign council in Osun State has called on Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to guarantee a transparent and credible governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026. The party's electoral body, the Imole Campaign Council, is raising concerns ahead of the poll to allow INEC ample time to improve its preparations and reassure voters.

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The council was concerned about reports and allegations that emerged during recent off-cycle and by-elections in some states, including claims relating to the handling of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), ballot papers, Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices and election result sheets.

Senator Lere Oyewumi, Director-General of the Imole Campaign Council, expressed worry over reports and allegations from recent off-cycle and by-elections in other states. These concerns reportedly involve the management of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), ballot papers, Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices, and election result sheets. The council stressed the importance of securing all electoral materials and technologies deployed for the Osun governorship election against manipulation.

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We urged the electoral commission to ensure that all electoral materials and technologies deployed for the Osun governorship poll are adequately secured and protected from manipulation.

Oyewumi stated that the council's concerns are based on reports from election observers and public discussions about past elections. The Accord Party is urging INEC to publicly affirm its commitment to a free, fair, and credible election for Osun State residents. Additionally, the council appealed to security agencies and relevant authorities to investigate any claims that could erode public trust in the electoral process and to implement necessary safeguards before the election. The council also called for an audit of all BVAS devices and election result sheets to enhance process integrity and prevent electoral malpractice, emphasizing that transparent elections are vital for sustaining public trust and ensuring the outcome reflects the electorate's will. As of this report, INEC had not yet responded to the Accord Party's concerns.

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The council also called on INEC to publicly reassure residents of Osun State of its commitment to conducting a free, fair and credible election.