IPAC urges INEC, security agencies to ensure credible Osun polls

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has urged Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to ensure a credible and transparent governorship election in Osun State on August 15, 2026. In a statement following its General Assembly meeting, IPAC's National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, expressed concern over escalating political tensions in the state ahead of the poll.

Dantalle emphasized the importance of the election being a contest of ideas, policies, and programmes, warning against any attempts to substitute its will for that of the electorate. He urged all political actors to reduce political rhetoric and refrain from actions that could exacerbate tension or threaten the state's peace and stability.

Dantalle also called on INEC to conduct the election with professionalism, independence, transparency, and impartiality, ensuring compliance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act 2026, and the approved timetable. The IPAC chairman highlighted the Commission's key obligations, including transparent accreditation and voting, timely delivery of materials, accurate collation of results, and protection of the electoral process from manipulation.

Regarding security, Dantalle stressed that personnel must operate within their constitutional mandate and protect voters, candidates, and officials without discrimination. He also condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's freezing of Osun State Government accounts, describing it as "politically motivated" and capable of undermining the administration of the state.

Dantalle denounced vote buying, electoral violence, and the use of state institutions to intimidate opponents, urging political parties, candidates, and supporters to embrace peaceful competition and reject inflammatory rhetoric. He appealed to residents to vote peacefully, protect their permanent voter cards, and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.