Prior to March 11, 2026 set for the commencement of campaign, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged political parties in Osun State to embrace issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
The commission in a statement by its spokesperson, Musa Olurode, said the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, during a stakeholders’ meeting ahead of the formal opening of electioneering campaigns by parties, stressed the need for constructive debates focused on policies and development, which were aimed at educating the public about candidates rather than personal attacks and inflammatory rhetoric.
He said the meeting, which brought together representatives of political parties, security agencies, civil society organisations, the media and other critical stakeholders, was aimed at reinforcing collective commitment toward a credible, transparent and peaceful electoral process.
According to him, Agboke emphasised that all stakeholders are partners united by a common goal, ensuring a credible, transparent and peaceful electoral environment for the forthcoming 2026 election fixed for August 15.
“The success of the electoral process depends not only on INEC, but also on the responsible conduct of political parties, candidates, supporters, security agencies and the electorate at large.”
Olurode said the REC underscored that the primary objective of a political rally was to educate voters about candidates’ policies, aspirations and plans for governance.
He cautioned against misuse of campaigns as platforms for inflammatory rhetoric, misinformation, or actions capable of undermining public peace.
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