By Chioma Favour
The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa) has called for a peaceful, transparent and credible Osun State governorship election scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The organisation, through its Election Analysis Centre (EAC), said its pre-election assessment shows that the political environment in the state remains relatively calm but not entirely peaceful, with several issues requiring close attention as election day approaches.
According to CDD, reports of killings and other security incidents in parts of Osun State remain a major concern. The organisation also noted reported tensions and perceived violations involving road transport workers.
While it said it could not establish a direct link between the reported incidents and the governorship election, CDD urged security agencies to remain vigilant and strengthen coordination ahead of the poll.
Vote Buying Remains a Concern
CDD also identified vote buying and voter inducement as significant risks to the credibility of the election.
The organisation said the perception that economic hardship could make some voters more vulnerable to monetary and other forms of inducement should not be dismissed, urging the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), police and other relevant agencies to act firmly, impartially and within the law against attempts to compromise voters’ choices.
CDD Warns Against Fake INEC Information
The organisation further raised concerns over the spread of misinformation and disinformation ahead of the election.
It said fabricated Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) notices and other false information circulating online could confuse voters, undermine public confidence and discourage participation.
CDD urged citizens to verify election-related information before sharing or amplifying it, while calling on INEC to respond promptly to false information concerning the election.
Political Realignments Could Affect Election Environment
CDD also noted recent shifts in political alignments in the state, including reports of support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate by a faction associated with former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola.
The organisation said the developments further demonstrate the fluidity of the political environment and urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to manage the competition responsibly while rejecting intimidation, violence and other forms of electoral malpractice.
CDD Commends INEC Preparations
The Centre acknowledged INEC’s preparations for the election but urged the commission to ensure the timely deployment of personnel and electoral materials.
It also called for the effective functioning of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), as well as clear communication with voters throughout the electoral process.
On security, CDD urged security agencies to maintain a professional, impartial and voter-centred posture while protecting voters, election officials, journalists, observers and other participants.
The organisation called on the people of Osun State to come out peacefully, reject vote buying and intimidation, and exercise their civic rights.
CDD disclosed that it has deployed trained observers across all 30 Local Government Areas of Osun State. Its Election Analysis Centre will monitor developments throughout the electoral process and provide updates based on verified information.
The organisation said the credibility of the election would ultimately depend on the conduct of INEC, security agencies, political parties and candidates, the media, civil society organisations and, most importantly, voters.
It therefore urged all stakeholders to put the interests of the people of Osun above partisan considerations and ensure that the election outcome reflects the genuine will of the electorate.
