Independent National Electoral Commission says it has recorded a total of 381,817 fresh registrations at the end of the Continuous Voter Registration exercise in Osun State.
Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, Mrs Oluwatoyin O. Babalola, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Union of Journalists Correspondents’ Chapel in Osogbo on Tuesday.
Babalola said the commission achieved the figure with the support of stakeholders, particularly the media, whose contributions she described as vital to the success of the exercise.
The REC commended journalists for their commitment to truth and dedication to democratic values, noting that their consistent reportage had strengthened public trust in the electoral process.
“The role of the media is commendable and indispensable to the success of democratic exercises,” she said.
She urged media practitioners to intensify efforts in combating misinformation and disinformation, stressing that the commission recognises the media as critical stakeholders.
She added that INEC remained committed to conducting credible elections in line with the Electoral Act, the Constitution, and its operational guidelines.
She assured that the commission’s staff are fully prepared to deploy their experience and expertise towards the successful conduct of the forthcoming governorship election.
Babalola also assured residents of the state that INEC under her leadership would deliver a free, fair, inclusive, and transparent election on August 15, 2026.
Addressing concerns about vote trading, she stressed that the commission does not engage in buying or selling votes, describing the act as a criminal offence.
“INEC does not sell or buy votes. The sellers and buyers are not INEC. Political parties and stakeholders must ensure voters act according to their conscience,” she said.
The REC warned that vote buying undermines accountability, noting that voters who sell their votes cannot hold elected leaders responsible for their actions.
She disclosed that the commission was working with relevant agencies, including the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, to curb the menace.
She also emphasised that sanctions exist for individuals found guilty of vote buying and selling.
Also, during a call on the Commissioner of Police for Osun State, CP Ibrahim Gotan, Mrs Babalola commended the Nigeria Police for its professionalism and support in providing security for electoral activities, describing the police as a reliable partner.
She appealed for enhanced cooperation to ensure the peaceful conduct of the August 15 election, adding, “We are ready to work with you. We have been working and will still work with you and together, we will deliver a credible election.”
Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, in his remarks, welcomed the REC and assured her of maximum security before, during, and after the poll.
“Your assignment is very crucial to national development. It is also our duty to protect you. By the grace of God, we will provide maximum security for the election,” he said.
