Protests erupted in Osogbo on Tuesday as residents gathered at the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to challenge the recent redeployment of the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Mutiu Agboke ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Agboke, who was redeployed to Ondo State as INEC REC on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 had since resumed office in his new assignment.
The protesters, including market women and civil society representatives, said the transfer of the former REC had raised concerns about the transparency of the electoral process.
Carrying placards and chanting slogans, they called on the Commission to clarify the circumstances surrounding the redeployment, warning against any action that could undermine public confidence.
The protesters urged the Commission to remain impartial and to ensure that the will of the electorate is reflected in the outcome of the forthcoming governorship election.
In response to the demonstration, the new REC, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, addressed the crowd through officials of the commission, seeking to allay their fears.
Represented by the Head of Legal Department, Barrister Niyi Fayanju, and the Head of Voters’ Education and Publicity, Rufus Ariyo, she stated that adequate measures had been put in place to ensure a credible poll.
“The commission is committed to conducting a free, fair and conclusive election. We understand your concerns and we assure you that every vote will count,” she stated.
She added that, “The integrity of the electoral process remains our priority, and no individual change will affect our preparedness for the election.”
Mrs Babalola also acknowledged the concerns raised by residents, noting that public trust was essential to the success of the electoral process.
