President Bola Tinubu has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to guarantee a peaceful, transparent, and trustworthy governorship election in Osun State.

The Osun State governorship election is set for Saturday, August 15, 2026, with 15 candidates running for the position.

Key contenders include the current governor, Ademola Adeleke from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Hon. Najeem Salaam from the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

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In a statement released on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu encouraged INEC to ensure that the electoral process is conducted smoothly and maintains its integrity.

“As the people of Osun State head to the polling units to elect who will govern them in the next four years, I call on the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure orderly conduct of the election.

“The election must be transparent, free and fair. I urge INEC to ensure the integrity of the process,” the President said.

Tinubu pointed out that this election is a chance for INEC to show its readiness for the upcoming general elections in 2027.

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“INEC must use this last off-cycle election as a test case to demonstrate to Nigerians their full preparedness for the 2027 polls,” he added.

The President also instructed the Inspector-General of Police and other heads of security agencies involved in the election to provide proper security at polling stations and to stop any troublemakers from disturbing the process.

“I have charged the Inspector-General of Police and other heads of security outfits taking part in the election to provide maximum security at polling units. No room should be allowed for troublemakers to disrupt the process,” Tinubu said.

He emphasized the importance of safeguarding both electoral officials and voters, stating that they should be able to carry out their civic duties without fear or intimidation.

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The President encouraged eligible voters in Osun State to participate in the election and choose their preferred candidates. He promised that the right security measures are in place to ensure a safe voting experience.

“Voters should feel confident to go out in their numbers to vote for the candidate of their choice as all measures necessary to ensure a peaceful, free and fair election have been put in place,” he said.

Tinubu also stated that the election results should truly represent what the people of Osun State want.

“Our elections must be credible, and the outcome of the Osun Governorship election must reflect the will of the people,” the President said.

Additionally, he asked voters and everyone involved to avoid any actions that could disturb the election process before, during, and after the voting day.