Professor Joash Amupitan, who leads the Independent National Electoral Commission, has ordered staff to provide special consideration to senior citizens casting their ballots in the upcoming August 15, 2026, Osun State gubernatorial race. This instruction was issued Saturday as Amupitan observed trial accreditation procedures throughout the region.
The chairperson visited several sites, including St. Peter’s Primary School in Ibokun and locations in Egbedore and Osogbo. During his tour, he evaluated the effectiveness of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). While one unit in Olorunsogo faced a brief technical hurdle with voter identification, local officials quickly restored the system.
Ayodele Samuel Abiodun, a participant at the polling station, praised the technical team for their rapid response. The trial confirmed that both legacy and current voter cards are compatible with the machines. Amupitan stated that the goal of the mock exercise was to preempt potential glitches, noting that the ICT department successfully resolved initial recognition issues.
Addressing the workforce, the chairperson highlighted the need for professionalism and punctual arrival on election day. He advised staff to be present by 7:00 a.m. for an 8:30 a.m. start. Feedback from temporary staff indicated that facial verification typically concludes within one minute, with the overall process currently running without significant complications.
