Osun NURTW crises won’t affect gov poll - INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State has affirmed that ongoing internal disputes within the state chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) will not disrupt the logistics for the upcoming August 15, 2026 governorship election. Oluwatoyin Babalola, the Osun Resident Electoral Commissioner, provided this assurance on Sunday in Osogbo during a town hall meeting focused on election integrity.

Babalola highlighted the critical role of transportation in election logistics, stating that any failure in this area could jeopardize the entire process. She explained that transporters are essential for moving election personnel and materials to various locations, including local government areas, registration centers, and polling units. The REC clarified that INEC is engaging directly with the national leadership of the NURTW, bypassing any state-level factions. The commission has held multiple discussions with the national body regarding the need for promptness, neutrality, professionalism, and the provision of well-maintained vehicles.

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Transportation is a critical aspect of election logistics, because no matter how well planned an election is, when transportation fails, the election has failed.

"Whatever problem they have internally is their problem, but as regards the engagement with INEC for the movement of men and materials, we are not envisaging any problem. Because we are dealing with the national body," Babalola stated. She added that INEC has not been informed of any specific factions at the state level and is working with a designated representative of the national body, who has provided assurances that logistical issues will not arise.

Earlier, traditional rulers, including the Elegboro of Ijebu-Jesa, Oba Moses Agunsoye, and the Akire of Ikire-Ile, Oba AbdulAzeez Olatunbosun, urged the electorate to vote according to their conscience and resist financial inducements. They emphasized that political ambitions should not lead to loss of life and warned against political violence. Oba Agunsoye addressed concerns about Ijesaland being a potential hotspot, noting that traditional rulers in the zone have met with politicians to caution them against violence.

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Whatever problem they have internally is their problem, but as regards the engagement with INEC for the movement of men and materials, we are not envisaging any problem. Because we are dealing with the national body.