President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that every lawful vote cast in the Osun State governorship election is properly recorded, describing the poll as a critical opportunity to strengthen public confidence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Friday, the President urged all institutions and citizens involved in the election to play their part in delivering a peaceful, transparent, free and fair process as the people of Osun State go to the polls on Saturday, August 15, 2026, to elect their governor for the next four years.
President Tinubu disclosed that he has directed the Inspector-General of Police and the heads of all security agencies deployed for the election to guarantee the safety of voters, electoral officials and election materials. He stressed that every citizen must be able to exercise the right to vote without fear, intimidation or violence, and that there must be no room for anyone seeking to disrupt the process or undermine the peace of Osun State.
“I urge the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct the election with the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. Every vote must count. Every lawful vote must be properly recorded,” the President stated.
He noted that with the 2027 general elections approaching, this final off-cycle governorship election presents another opportunity for INEC to demonstrate its preparedness and build greater public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Addressing the people of Osun State, President Tinubu called on them to turn out in large numbers and discharge their civic responsibility peacefully. He urged voters to choose the candidate of their preference while respecting the rights of others to do the same.
“Elections are contests of ideas and service, and should never cost the life of any Nigerian,” he said.
The President affirmed that the Federal Government has taken the necessary measures to support a peaceful election. He emphasised that the government’s responsibility is to protect both the process and the people, while the ultimate decision rests with the electorate of Osun State.
“Whatever that decision may be, it must be respected,” President Tinubu concluded.