Tinubu Calls for Credible Elections in Ekiti and Osun

President Bola Tinubu has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political parties, and security agencies to ensure that the upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states are credible.

The president made this statement during a televised speech on Friday to celebrate this year’s Democracy Day.

“In the coming days, Ekiti and Osun states will hold elections. I urge INEC, security agencies, and all parties to ensure these polls are peaceful and credible,” he said.

He mentioned that the elections present another chance to strengthen democratic governance and boost public confidence in the electoral system.

Tinubu’s comments come as political parties ramp up their campaigns ahead of the two governorship elections. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and major opposition parties are fielding candidates in both South-west states.

There are ongoing discussions about electoral integrity, voter turnout, and security during elections. INEC has repeatedly assured Nigerians that it aims to conduct free, fair, and credible elections. Security agencies have also promised to maintain order during the polls.

The governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun are expected to significantly influence political strategies ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In Ekiti State, the governorship election is set for 20 June. This election will be competitive as opposition parties aim to replace Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who finishes his first term next year and is seeking re-election as the APC candidate.

Oyebanji, aiming for a second term, will face 12 male opposition candidates: Oluwole Oluyede (PDP), Olajuyin Oyebanji Ikusayedegbe (Labour), Ayodele Olaniyi Olanrewaju Praise (PRP), Isaac Adebayo Alade (SDP), Abegunde Ayobami Blessing (NNPP), Osinkolu Olusegun Ayodele (Youth Progressive), Adetunji Victor Damilola (ZLP), Falegan Opeyemi David (Accord), Bejide Oluwadare Patrick (ADC), Akande Oluwasegun Samuel (AAC), Ojo Ayodeji (ADP), and Awogbemi Bidemi Olaiya (APP).

Observers believe this election will be closely watched to measure the APC’s support in its traditional stronghold in the South-west.

In Osun State, the election is scheduled for 15 August. The current Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord party is also running for re-election for a second term.

Adeleke will compete against 13 other candidates, including Bola Oyebamiji (APC), Olanrewaju Farinloye (Action Alliance), Esan Olajide (AAC), Salaam Folasayo (ADC), and Adeagbo Yemisi (ADP), who is the only woman in the race.

Other parties taking part include All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party (BP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Young Progressive Party (YPP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).