Osun Election: Atiku Warns INEC Against ‘Mysterious Glitches’

Former Vice-President and African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has warned the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies and the Federal Government against using state institutions to influence the outcome of Saturday’s Osun State governorship election.

Atiku spoke on Wednesday at the ADC National Youth Leadership Summit in Abuja, where he described the August 15 election as an important test of Nigeria’s ability to conduct credible elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The former vice-president expressed concern over the level of security deployment planned for the election, arguing that the scale appeared excessive for a democratic exercise.

He said elections should be treated as civil engagements rather than military operations and urged security agencies to protect voters and electoral officials without intimidating political opponents.

Atiku also questioned why similar levels of security attention were not being deployed to communities facing attacks from terrorists, kidnappers and bandits.

He called on INEC to avoid unexplained technical problems, delays or any form of manipulation during the election.

According to him, electoral materials should reach polling units on time, voters should be allowed to cast their ballots without obstruction, while the counting and transmission of results should be conducted transparently.

Atiku further urged the police, military and electoral commission to remain neutral and serve the interests of Nigerians rather than any political party.

He said the conduct of the Osun election would be closely watched by Nigerians and the international community, urging the authorities to ensure that every eligible voter is allowed to participate and that their votes count.

The ADC presidential candidate also renewed his concerns over the certificate submitted to INEC by President Bola Tinubu from Chicago State University.

He alleged that there were differences between versions of the certificate, including discrepancies in dates, signatures and the description of the degree.

Atiku questioned the appearance of names and signatures of university officials who reportedly assumed their positions years after the date stated on the document.

He called for the exact certificate submitted to INEC to be authenticated by Chicago State University and asked who produced and authorised the document.

Atiku also referred to constitutional provisions concerning the submission of forged certificates to INEC, arguing that the issue should be properly clarified.

Turning to youth participation in politics, he pledged that at least 30 per cent of legislative candidates under his political programme would be below 40 years, with a substantial number below 30.

He urged young Nigerians to register as voters, organise politically and take active roles in leadership.

Atiku argued that expressing frustration on social media would not be enough to bring about political change, calling on young people to translate their concerns into organised political participation.