Professor Joash Amupitan, the National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has requested that traditional leaders in Osun State actively engage with politicians to maintain stability surrounding the upcoming August 15 gubernatorial election. During a meeting at the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, the chairman emphasized that local monarchs possess the influence necessary to discourage election-related hostility.
Addressing the issue of security, Amupitan announced that INEC is implementing a new system allowing voters who had their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) stolen to download and print replacements. He reassured the public that snatched cards are effectively useless because strict accreditation procedures remain in place for all voters. He stated that the distribution of these new, printable PVCs has already begun.
Regarding the commission’s overall strategy, Amupitan noted that they are collaborating closely with federal security agencies, including the police and military leadership, to ensure a secure environment for the poll. He maintained that a successful election requires logistical precision, punctuality, and transparent result management to ensure the process remains peaceful and free from violence.
