The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured residents of Osun State that the August 15 governorship election will be peaceful, credible, and transparent.
The assurance was given by the new Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, during an address to protesters at the commission’s office in Osogbo on Tuesday.
The protesters, made up of market women and members of a civil society group, had gathered to express concerns over the transfer of the former REC, Dr Mutiu Agboke, alleging that the move could affect the integrity of the election.
Represented by the Head of Legal Department, Mr Niyi Fayanju, and the Head of Voters’ Education and Publicity, Mr Rufus Ariyo, Babalola reassured the crowd that their votes would count.
She stated that the commission had already put in place necessary measures to ensure that the election would be free, fair, and conclusive.
Acknowledging the concerns raised, the REC said residents’ fears were understandable, but emphasised her commitment to upholding the credibility of the electoral process.
Babalola also clarified that staff transfers are a routine administrative function of INEC and that the redeployment of the former REC followed established civil service rules.
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Some of the protesters, however, maintained that the transfer appeared politically motivated and urged the new REC to remain neutral and avoid any form of bias.
Speaking on behalf of the demonstrators, Mr Musa Abdulsalam, Chairman of the Coalition of Concerned Nigerian Citizens in Osun, submitted a formal petition to INEC officials.
Others, including artisans such as Mrs Sadiat Amsat, Ms Temitope Abass, and Mrs Mary Adewale, appealed to the commission to ensure transparency and resist pressure from political interests.
The upcoming governorship election is expected to draw significant attention, with residents calling for a process that reflects the true will of the people.
