Prof. Joash Amupitan, head of the Independent National Electoral Commission, has requested the help of traditional leaders to guarantee a secure and transparent governorship race in Osun State this August. During his visit to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, in Ile-Ife this Tuesday, Amupitan voiced his unease regarding the state’s political climate.
He urged the Ooni to encourage political groups to prioritize policy discussions over hostility, emphasizing that no politician’s career is worth the loss of life. Amupitan formally informed the monarch that the election is scheduled for August 15, 2026, describing it as a vital test for the nation’s democratic processes. He warned that misinformation could trigger unrest and reiterated his commitment to conducting an election that is fair, open, and trustworthy.
The INEC leader also confirmed that the 2027 general elections will begin with federal polls on January 16, followed by state-level elections on February 6. He characterized the upcoming Osun vote as a critical indicator for the future of national elections.
In response, the Ooni of Ife stated that traditional rulers in the region maintain neutrality and intend to hold politicians accountable for their actions. The monarch encouraged INEC to act with integrity and praised President Bola Tinubu for supporting the commission’s independence, noting that the primary goal of the royal leadership is the continued peace and stability of the state.
