The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says more than 2.3 million registered voters will be eligible to vote in the Osun State governorship election on 15 August.
The announcement was made by INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, during a visit to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, as part of the commission’s preparations for the election.
According to INEC, 2,339,233 registered voters will cast their ballots across 3,763 polling units located in 332 registration areas in the state’s 30 local government areas.
Prof. Amupitan described the election as a key milestone ahead of the 2027 general election, saying the commission is focused on delivering a peaceful, transparent and credible poll.
“We are determined to ensure that the process is free, fair and credible,” he said.
He confirmed that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) would be used to accredit voters and stressed that only those successfully accredited would be allowed to vote.
The INEC chairman also appealed to traditional rulers to help maintain peace by encouraging politicians and their supporters to reject violence, vote-buying and other electoral offences.
“The blood of one innocent person is not worth a governorship election. Nobody should be killed, threatened or intimidated because of an election,” he said.
Prof. Amupitan also warned against the spread of fake election results and misinformation, particularly through the misuse of artificial intelligence, saying such actions could create unnecessary tension.
In his response, the Ooni of Ife welcomed INEC’s engagement with traditional rulers but expressed concern over increasing political tension in the state.
He urged the electoral commission to remain impartial and conduct an election that reflects the will of the people.
