The Independent National Electoral Commission has called for increased collaboration among stakeholders to tackle electoral malpractice ahead of the 2026 governorship election in Osun State.
Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, made this appeal during an interview on the political programme Gbagede Oselu, aired by the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State, in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Sunday.
Agboke expressed deep concern over the persistence of vote buying and electoral violence, both before and during elections.
He emphasized that INEC alone cannot eliminate these challenges and called on political actors, the media, civil society organisations, and religious leaders to take active roles in protecting the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.
“We will continue to campaign against the cankerworm of trying to buy the minds of the people. Even worse, some believe they can still use violence to gain an advantage,” Agboke stated.
“There is no better government for the people than a democratic one, and the only way to attain it is through credible elections. We must collectively address anything that threatens this process.”
The REC stressed that continuous voter education and community engagement were crucial to discouraging electoral malpractice and fostering democratic values.
“Stakeholders must take the lead in voter education. The media, civil society groups, and religious bodies—Christians and Muslims alike—must step beyond their comfort zones and educate people on the value of their votes,” he said.
While acknowledging the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians, Agboke urged voters to reject inducements during elections and vote based on their conscience.
“I understand that poverty and deprivation are widespread, but we must talk to our people. Let them know their conscience should determine the direction of their votes, not money,” he added.
Agboke also charged political leaders and parties with the responsibility of promoting peaceful and credible elections.
“Call the politicians; they are the biggest beneficiaries of the electoral process. They should be at the forefront of this conversation.”
Speaking on the importance of adhering to INEC’s operational guidelines, he warned against any attempt to manipulate the commission’s technological tools, particularly the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System.
“Any INEC staff who sabotages the process by tampering with the BVAS has compromised the election and should be reported to security agencies, not attacked,” he cautioned.
Dr. Agboke reiterated that INEC has set regulations in place to guide the conduct of elections and emphasized that compliance and accountability from all actors were essential for progress.
“Let everyone rise up to their responsibilities. Democracy can only thrive when we all commit to doing what is right,” he concluded.