CSOs Petition INEC Chairman Over Alleged Staff Redeployments Ahead Of Osun Poll

CSOs Petition INEC Chairman Over Alleged Staff Redeployments Ahead of Osun Poll Civil society organisations (CSOs) have petitioned the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, over what they described as controversial redeployment of electoral staff ahead of the forthcoming Osun State governorship election.

The groups raised concerns that recent postings of key electoral officials in the state could undermine public confidence in the credibility and neutrality of the election if not urgently reviewed. According to the coalition, the redeployments allegedly carried out close to the election period risk creating suspicion among stakeholders and political actors already wary of administrative interference in electoral processes. The CSOs urged the commission’s leadership to investigate the postings and ensure that all personnel assignments strictly follow established electoral guidelines and best democratic practices.

They warned that perceived lack of transparency could heighten political tension in the state as campaigns intensify ahead of the poll.

The organisations also called on INEC to reassure voters, political parties and observers that the election management body remains impartial and committed to credible polls. Meanwhile, INEC announced adjustments to the official campaign timetable following the shift in the election date.

The commission explained that the revised schedule was necessary to align campaign activities, logistics preparations and electoral procedures with the new polling timeline. Political parties are expected to comply fully with the updated calendar, including deadlines for rallies, media campaigns and other electioneering activities The Osun governorship election is scheduled for August 8, 2026, when voters will elect the next governor of the South-West state.

The contest is already attracting heightened political attention, with parties intensifying mobilisation efforts and stakeholders closely monitoring INEC’s administrative decisions. Civil society groups emphasised that early corrective measures would strengthen electoral integrity and prevent disputes before and after the vote. They urged INEC to engage stakeholders transparently and maintain professionalism among its officials to guarantee a peaceful and credible electoral process. INEC has yet to issue a detailed public response to the petition at the time of filing this report.