Osun Decides 2026: Army, police mount checkpoints as INEC moves sensitive materials

Heavy security presence has blanketed Osun State as authorities prepare for Saturday's governorship election. Police, army, and civil defense corps personnel are patrolling strategic locations in cities like Osogbo, Ikirun, and Ile-Ife, with armed officers visible on streets and at checkpoints along major routes.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is actively distributing sensitive election materials to Registration Area Centres (RACs) across the state. These materials are being transported under armed escort, with operations commencing as early as 10 a.m. in many INEC offices.

Sixteen candidates were initially cleared for the election, but two have since withdrawn. The main contenders include the incumbent governor seeking a second term, a former commissioner for finance, and a former speaker of the state assembly. The election takes place against a backdrop of heightened concerns over potential violence, given the state's history of electoral disturbances.