Osun Decides 2026: President Tinubu Demands Free, Fair Election, Orders Maximum Security
President Bola Tinubu has ordered security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to guarantee a peaceful, transparent, and credible governorship election in Osun State tomorrow, August 15, 2026.
The President issued this directive in a statehouse statement on Friday through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
A Litmus Test for 2027 General Elections
President Tinubu described the Osun polls as a critical test case for Nigeria’s electoral umpire. He challenged INEC to use this final off-cycle election to prove its readiness for the upcoming 2027 general elections.
“The election must be transparent, free and fair,” Tinubu stated. “I urge INEC to ensure the integrity of the process. INEC must use this last off-cycle election as a test case to demonstrate to Nigerians their full preparedness for the 2027 polls.”
Zero Tolerance for Electoral Violence
The President directed the Inspector-General of police and heads of other security agencies to deploy maximum security across all polling units. He warned that the government will tolerate no disruptions from troublemakers.
Security agencies must protect voters casting their ballots, INEC officials managing the polling centres, and the integrity of the entire voting process. “Electoral officials and voters must be protected so they can perform their civic duties without fear or intimidation,” Tinubu declared.
Osun Election and Nigeria’s 2027 Polls
Saturday’s election features a competitive field of 15 candidates vying for the state’s top job. The frontline contenders include the incumbent, Governor Ademola Adeleke, Asiwaju Munirudeen Oyebamiji who is the APC candidate, and Najeem Salaam representing the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
President Tinubu urged the citizens of Osun State to come out in large numbers to vote, assuring them that extensive measures are in place to safeguard their lives and properties before, during, and after the election.
