The Independent National Electoral Commission has stepped up preparations for the 2026 Osun State governorship election, emphasizing the need for increased voter education and greater citizen participation ahead of the poll scheduled for August 15.
Speaking during a Joint Implementation Meeting involving the Voter Education and Publicity Department as well as the Gender and Inclusivity Department in Osogbo on Monday, Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Oluwatoyin O. Babalola, urged electoral officials to strengthen grassroots engagement to address voter apathy.
According to Babalola, elections should be viewed as an ongoing process rather than a one-time event.
“Election is a process, not an event,” she stated.
She expressed concern that despite improvements in the electoral system, many eligible voters remain disengaged due to factors such as misinformation, distrust of the electoral process, political disinterest, and limited access to credible information.
Babalola stressed that voter education must go beyond informing people about election dates and procedures.
“Citizens must understand not only when elections will hold but also why their participation matters,” she said.
The REC called on Electoral Officers and Assistant Electoral Officers across the state to intensify awareness campaigns within communities.
She encouraged outreach efforts in markets, schools, motor parks, and places of worship, while also fostering collaboration with traditional rulers and religious leaders to broaden voter awareness.
She further highlighted the importance of inclusion in the electoral process, noting that all segments of society must be adequately represented.
“Inclusivity is not merely a policy objective but a democratic imperative,” Babalola said.
She urged election officials to pay particular attention to women, young people, elderly citizens, and persons living with disabilities, ensuring that they are not excluded from electoral activities.
Babalola also directed officials to identify communities with a history of low voter turnout and design targeted strategies to improve participation in such areas.
Reaffirming the commission’s commitment to voter enlightenment, she said, “Every eligible voter must know why voting matters, how to vote correctly, where to vote, and when to vote.”
She added that INEC remains committed to building public confidence in the electoral process and encouraging wider participation ahead of the Osun governorship election.
