The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it has received 80 per cent of the non-sensitive materials required for the conduct of the Osun State governorship election scheduled for 15 August.
The disclosure was made by the Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, during a press briefing held at the commission’s headquarters in Osogbo.
Babalola said preparations for the governorship election were progressing steadily, assuring political parties, voters and other stakeholders that the commission remained on course to conduct a credible, free and fair poll.
According to her, the arrival of the non-sensitive election materials marks a significant milestone in the commission’s preparations, with all necessary arrangements being made to ensure a seamless electoral process.
She explained that INEC was working closely with relevant security agencies to safeguard the materials before they are distributed to the appropriate locations across the state.
“We are collaborating with relevant security agencies to ensure the safe storage of the materials,” Babalola said.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner stressed that the security of election materials remains a top priority for the commission, adding that measures had been put in place to prevent any form of compromise before election day.
Babalola also addressed the issue of voter apathy, urging stakeholders to intensify efforts aimed at encouraging eligible voters to participate actively in the democratic process.
She emphasised that increasing voter turnout requires the collective commitment of all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations, religious leaders, traditional rulers, community leaders and the media.
According to her, sustained public enlightenment campaigns are essential to educating citizens on the importance of exercising their constitutional right to vote.
The REC further appealed to journalists and media organisations to uphold professionalism throughout the election period by providing accurate, balanced and responsible coverage.
She cautioned against sensational reporting capable of heightening political tension, stressing that the media has a crucial role to play in promoting peaceful, credible and transparent elections.
“The media should not overheat the polity. We urge journalists to cooperate with the commission through balanced and credible reportage,” she said.
Babalola reaffirmed INEC‘s commitment to delivering a transparent and credible governorship election in Osun State, assuring residents that the commission would continue to engage stakeholders and provide regular updates as preparations advance.
The Osun governorship election, scheduled for 15 August, is expected to attract keen political interest, with political parties intensifying campaigns ahead of the poll.
INEC has repeatedly assured Nigerians of its readiness to conduct elections that reflect the will of the people, while urging all stakeholders to support peaceful participation and adherence to electoral guidelines throughout the process.