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The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, has warned that anyone found engaging in electoral irregularities during the 2026 governorship election in the state will face imprisonment.
During a visit to the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ede on Tuesday, Agboke stated that several mechanisms had been established to prevent both permanent and ad-hoc staff from participating in election malpractice.
He pointed out that, according to INEC regulations, corps members serve as electoral staff during elections, and they have full control over polling units, making adequate training crucial.
Agboke indicated that the Osun 2026 governorship election would be highly competitive, emphasizing that politicians might attempt to influence or intimidate corps members, highlighting the need for vigilance.
He assured that the welfare of corps members, including payments and allowances, would be fully addressed, and all personnel deployed for the election would receive their payments promptly.
Agboke mentioned that INEC is dedicated to ensuring that the 2026 election would be an improvement over the conduct of the 2023 polls.
“We have realized that there have been numerous complaints, irregularities, and observations regarding the activities of corps members. We found that the best solution is to engage them and bring them closer to us. This necessitated my visit to the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp today to educate them on the fundamentals of the job. Election is a job,” he stated.
“That one year is for them to work, and by law, they are working for us,” he added.
He urged corps members to focus closely during training, describing it as one of the major components of the electoral process, and emphasized the importance of avoiding absenteeism.
Agboke reminded them that elections are conducted to ensure proper representation and that INEC is constitutionally empowered to oversee both general and off-season elections.
He further advised corps members on election duty to avoid violence and remain vigilant against threats on election day, warning them against colluding with politicians, deceit, or laziness.
In his remarks, the NYSC Osun State Coordinator, Agbor Ndoma Obim, praised INEC for its positive contributions to Nigeria’s electoral process.
He expressed that the corps members were ready to participate in all INEC activities leading up to the 2026 governorship election and appreciated the commission’s efforts in providing guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the consequences of engaging in electoral irregularities?
Anyone caught engaging in electoral irregularities during the 2026 governorship election in Osun State will face imprisonment.
What is the role of corps members during the elections?
Corps members serve as electoral staff, having full control over polling units and are essential for ensuring the smooth conduct of elections.
How will corps members' welfare be handled during the election?
The welfare of corps members, including their payments and allowances, will be fully addressed, ensuring prompt payment for all personnel deployed for the election.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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