Osun 2026: Group Demands Credible Election, Tasks INEC On Transparency
By Richard Akintade, Osogbo
Civil Society Matters Committee of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s Campaign Council has called for accountability from the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, ahead of the Aug 15 governorship election in the state.
The Chairman of the Committee, Funmiso Babarinde, made the call during an engagement meeting with civil society organisations and media practitioners in Osogbo, Osun State.
Babarinde said the meeting was aimed at reminding stakeholders of the responsibilities, before, during and after the election.
He urged the media and civil society groups to hold INEC, security agencies, political actors, and other stakeholders accountable by ensuring they conduct themselves responsibly throughout the electoral process.
He also called on INEC to release the voter’s register to political parties on time, ensure early deployment of electoral materials, guarantee a hitch-free exercise and remain impartial.
Babarinde stressed that the police and other security agencies must remained apolitical.
According to Babarinde, “Fhey must desist from actions capable of creating tension or chaos ahead of the election. Security agencies should act professionally and responsibly to strengthen public confidence in the democratic process”.
He further urged the media to promote peace and unity during the electoral process. “Likewise, civil society organisations,as the voice of the people,must uphold partisanship” he said.
Babarinde noted that democracy must be protected, adding that the responsibility begins in Osun as the state prepares for this last phase of Nigerian’s off-cycle elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He commanded civil society groups and the media for their roles, particularly in offering constructive criticism and defending the state government’s achievement against what he described as campaigns of calummy.
Also speaking, the Vice-Chairman of the committee, Abiodun Adegoke, said the engagement was necessary to strengthen the democratic process ahead of another electoral cycle in the state .
Adegoke described civil society organisations as critical stakeholders in any democracy.
“Through advocacy, voter education, election monitoring and public engagement, they promote accountability and transparency in governance.
“Similarly, the media plays an indispensable role in shaping public opinion, disseminating accurate information, promoting peaceful coexistence and holding leaders accountable.
“A responsible media environment is essential for peaceful and credible elections, he said. He added that the engagement was designed to encourage dialogue, exchange ideas and foster collective commitment to sustaining free, fair and credible elections in the state.
