BY INWALOMHE DONALD
There are security gaps that require urgent attention ahead of the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election. Strengthening security arrangements is essential to boost public confidence and ensure the safety of voters, political actors, electoral officials and institutions throughout the electoral process.
There is also a need for all stakeholders to condemn political violence, intimidation and other actions capable of undermining a peaceful election. Security agencies and the Federal Government should continue to take proactive steps to maintain law and order before, during and after the election.
Free, fair and credible elections depend on an environment where citizens can vote without fear, political parties can campaign peacefully, and electoral institutions can carry out their constitutional responsibilities independently.
Ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship poll, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State disclosed that it had identified about 385 potential flashpoints and 200 difficult-to-access locations across the state.
Speaking on INEC’s preparations for the election, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, Oluwatoyin Babalola, explained that the Commission had conducted a comprehensive risk assessment across the 30 local government areas of the state. According to her, the findings have been shared with the heads of security agencies to enhance operational planning.
The disclosure was made during a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the South-West, Adegoke Fayoade, with heads of security agencies, religious leaders, electoral officials and members of the media.
On August 15, 2026, Osun State will elect a new governor in what is expected to be a keenly contested election. It will also be one of the last off-cycle governorship elections before the 2027 general elections, providing another opportunity to assess the preparedness of electoral institutions and security agencies.
Candidates from various political parties have been cleared by INEC to contest the election. Political observers expect a competitive race among the participating parties, making it important for all stakeholders to promote peaceful campaigns and respect democratic values.
INEC will also be expected to build on previous electoral experiences by ensuring a transparent and credible process. Likewise, security agencies have an important responsibility to provide adequate protection for voters, election officials and electoral materials while maintaining professionalism and impartiality.
The increasing use of digital platforms and informal communication channels also highlights the importance of promoting responsible information sharing and discouraging misinformation that could heighten political tensions.
The Osun governorship election is a significant moment not only for the people of the state but also for Nigeria’s democratic development. All stakeholders—including political parties, security agencies, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, religious leaders and citizens—must work together to ensure that the election is peaceful, credible, inclusive and reflects the will of the people.
Inwalomhe Donald
Justice Research Centre
inwalomhe.donald@yahoo.com
