The Independent National Electoral Commission in Osun State has advised political parties to strictly follow electoral laws as they prepare for their governorship primaries.
Resident Electoral Commissioner Dr Mutiu Agboke issued the reminder in a statement released on Monday, November 17, through INEC’s Public Relations Officer in the state, Olurode Musa.
He said the call had become necessary with the 2026 governorship election already set for August 8.
Agboke stressed that political parties must comply with the Electoral Act 2022 and INEC’s regulations, warning that many pre-election disputes stem from poorly managed primaries. He noted that credible internal elections would help reduce avoidable court cases.
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According to the statement, Agboke urged parties to conduct primaries that are transparent, peaceful, and truly representative of the choices of their members. He emphasised that every aspirant should be given equal access and opportunity to contest.
He also announced that party primaries for the governorship election would take place between November 24 and December 15, in line with the timetable released by the commission’s headquarters.
Agboke added that INEC is ready to provide guidance throughout the process and called for cooperation from political actors and security agencies to ensure a smooth exercise.
He also cautioned that the commission will closely monitor party activities and take lawful action against any party that disregards electoral guidelines.