The Independent National Electoral Commission in Osun State has announced that 192,702 Permanent Voter Cards have been picked up by eligible residents, accounting for 37.5 percent of the total distributed. Resident Electoral Commissioner Oluwatoyin Babalola confirmed these figures during an Osogbo town hall meeting, promising that the August 15 governorship election will be transparent and secure.
Babalola noted that while the commission awaits certain sensitive election materials, comprehensive preparations are underway. To boost engagement, the electoral body has launched various educational initiatives to help voters understand their civic duties. The commission has also identified potential security hotspots, including regions vulnerable to violence, and is working closely with law enforcement to address these threats.
A mock exercise for the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System is scheduled for August 1 across four local government areas. Regarding transport unions, Babalola clarified that the commission is only engaging with the national body’s designated representatives to avoid interference from internal group disputes.
During the event, stakeholders including police representatives, civil defense officials, and local monarchs called for calm. Security agencies promised robust strategies to maintain order, while religious leaders and traditional rulers urged the electorate to reject vote-buying and prioritize the state’s long-term peace over partisan interests.
