The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has appealed to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, to deploy his influence and moral authority in promoting peace, political tolerance and credible participation ahead of the 2026 governorship election in Osun State.
The appeal was made by the Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the revered traditional ruler as preparations intensify for the August 15 governorship poll.
Babalola said traditional institutions remain indispensable partners in Nigeria’s democratic process, noting that royal fathers occupy strategic positions in shaping public opinion, mobilising citizens and fostering unity across communities.
According to her, the support of the Ooni and other traditional rulers will be crucial in ensuring that political activities before, during and after the election are conducted peacefully and in accordance with democratic principles.
She explained that the commission is committed to delivering an election that reflects the genuine will of the people, adding that adequate preparations are already underway to guarantee a transparent, free and fair process.
The REC stressed that credible elections cannot be achieved through the efforts of INEC alone, insisting that political parties, candidates, security agencies, civil society organisations, religious leaders and traditional institutions must work collectively to preserve peace and public confidence in the electoral system.
“We believe that with the cooperation of critical stakeholders, especially our revered traditional rulers, Osun State can once again set an example of peaceful democratic participation for the rest of the country,” she stated.
Babalola urged political actors to conduct issue-based campaigns and avoid inflammatory comments capable of inciting violence or creating divisions among the electorate.
She warned against the use of hate speech, intimidation, vote-buying and other practices that undermine democratic values, maintaining that elections should be contests of ideas and service rather than platforms for conflict.
The electoral commissioner further appealed to residents to obtain accurate information from credible sources and resist attempts by individuals or groups to spread misinformation capable of heightening political tensions.
Responding, the Ooni of Ife assured the commission of his unwavering support toward ensuring a peaceful and credible governorship election.
Oba Ogunwusi reaffirmed the commitment of traditional institutions in Osun State to promoting harmony, unity and responsible political engagement, stressing that peace remains the foundation for sustainable development.
The monarch urged politicians to place the interests of the people above personal ambitions and avoid actions capable of threatening the stability and progress of the state.
He noted that political competition should never degenerate into hostility, violence or bitterness, adding that leadership should be pursued as a service to humanity rather than a struggle for power at all costs.
The Ooni also appealed to youths, who constitute a significant percentage of the voting population, not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of violence or political unrest.
He encouraged them to participate actively and responsibly in the democratic process while upholding the values of tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
The revered monarch expressed confidence in the preparedness of INEC and security agencies to deliver a credible election, urging all stakeholders to support initiatives aimed at ensuring transparency and public trust.
As the August 15, 2026, governorship election approaches, political activities have continued to gather momentum across Osun State, with major parties intensifying consultations, campaigns and grassroots mobilisation.
There have also been allegations and counter-allegations over what is perceived as sponsored attacks against politicians loyal to Governor Ademola Adeleke, a development that has heightened political tension in the state.