Osun Parties Urged To Run Clean Primaries

The call came from the Osun State office of the Independent National Electoral Commission as the state moves toward its 2026 governorship race.

The commission reminded political parties that the way they pick their candidates will help shape the election set for August 8, 2026.

The appeal was delivered by the state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Mutiu Agboke, who asked parties to follow the Electoral Act 2022 and the rules already issued by the commission. He stressed that adherence to these laws will reduce the common disputes that usually begin long before election day.

The commission warned that many of the legal battles seen in past cycles started during faulty or chaotic primaries. It noted that these crises can be avoided when parties stick to clear procedures and treat the process as a duty owed to their members.

The REC urged parties to create a level playing field during their primaries, making sure every aspirant has room to compete without intimidation or manipulation. He added that peaceful and open contests remain the best way to show that party members decide their own candidates.

According to the timetable from INEC headquarters, parties must hold their primaries between November 24 and December 15. The commission said it is ready to guide political parties through the process to ensure every step meets the law.

INEC also appealed to security agencies and other stakeholders to help keep the exercise calm and orderly. The commission said it will continue to observe party activities and respond within the law to any breach of the rules.