BREAKING: INEC Chairman Finally Speaks On Preferred Candidate For Osun 2026 Governorship Election

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has reaffirmed the Commission’s neutrality ahead of the August 15, 2026, governorship election in Osun State, declaring that INEC has no preferred candidate or political affiliation.

Speaking on Wednesday during a stakeholders’ meeting in Osogbo attended by political parties, civil society organisations and other election stakeholders, Amupitan stressed that the Commission’s only commitment is to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the will of the electorate.

He assured all political parties and candidates that INEC would provide a level playing field throughout the electoral process, emphasizing that the Commission’s duty is to ensure a free, fair and credible election.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission has no preferred candidate, holds no political allegiance, and seeks no outcome other than the lawful choice of the electorate. Our sole loyalty is to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the sovereign will of the Nigerian people,” he said.

The INEC chairman also appealed to eligible voters across Osun State to participate actively in the election, describing voter apathy as a major threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

According to him, democratic governance can only flourish when citizens exercise their constitutional right to vote.

“Apathy is the silent killer of democratic progress, and we must confront it head-on. The finest technology and the best-secured polling units mean little if they remain empty,” Amupitan stated.

Addressing concerns over security, he urged residents not to allow fear, violence or misinformation to discourage them from casting their ballots, assuring that adequate security arrangements would be in place to safeguard voters and election officials.

“Do not allow fear, apathy, or misinformation to silence your voice. Turn out peacefully on Saturday, August 15, 2026, vote your conscience, and trust that this Commission will protect the sanctity of every valid ballot. Our commitment is simple: no citizen should have to choose between their safety and their right to vote,” he said.

Amupitan further called on political parties and their supporters to uphold the Peace Accord and conduct their campaigns responsibly, warning that any attempt to incite violence or deploy political thugs would attract decisive action by security agencies.

He concluded by encouraging all eligible voters to troop out in large numbers on election day and make their voices heard through the ballot box.

“Let the streets of Osun State lead to the polling units on that day. Let your voices be heard, and let your votes count,” he added.