The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that a total of 381,817 new voters were registered at the end of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Osun State.
The Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Oluwatoyin O. Babalola, disclosed this on Tuesday during a visit to the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Correspondents’ Chapel in Osogbo.
She said the large number of registrations was made possible through the cooperation of different stakeholders, especially the media, which she said played a major role in creating awareness and encouraging participation.
Babalola praised journalists for their commitment to accurate reporting, saying their work has helped build public confidence in the electoral process.
She described the media as a key partner in strengthening democracy, noting that their role in informing the public cannot be ignored.
The REC also urged journalists to step up efforts in fighting fake news and false information, warning that misinformation can affect public trust in elections.
She assured residents that INEC remains committed to conducting elections based on the Electoral Act, the Constitution, and its official guidelines.
According to her, the commission’s staff are fully prepared and equipped to manage the upcoming governorship election in the state.
Babalola also assured voters that INEC will deliver a free, fair, transparent, and inclusive election scheduled for August 15, 2026.
She addressed concerns about vote buying, stressing that INEC does not participate in any form of vote trading.
She said, “INEC does not buy or sell votes. Those involved in such acts are political actors and individuals, not the commission.”
She warned that vote buying weakens democracy and prevents voters from holding leaders accountable after elections.
The REC added that INEC is working with anti-corruption agencies, including the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to reduce and prevent vote buying during elections.
She also reminded the public that anyone caught engaging in vote buying or selling will face legal punishment.
During another visit to the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, CP Ibrahim Gotan, Babalola appreciated the Nigeria Police for their support in maintaining security during electoral activities.
She described the police as an important partner in ensuring peaceful elections and called for continued cooperation ahead of the August poll.
Responding, the Commissioner of Police assured INEC of full security support before, during, and after the election.
He said the police are fully committed to protecting electoral officials and ensuring a safe environment for voters.
He added that the security agency will work closely with INEC to guarantee a peaceful and credible election in the state.