Osun Guber Election’ll Serve As Important Test Of Democratic Institutions – Shehu Sani

All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and former Kaduna Central Senatorial District Senator, Shehu Sani, has charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with its constitutional responsibility to “conduct free, fair, and credible elections.”

Speaking at a programme organised as part of activities to mark this year’s Democracy Day celebration in Osogbo, Sani, expressed the expectation that the commission would discharge its responsibilities professionally.

He said: “As we gather here in Osun State today, our attention naturally turns to the forthcoming governorship election scheduled for August 2026.

“This election is significant not only for the people of Osun State but for the entire nation. It will serve as an important test of our democratic institutions and a major indicator of Nigeria’s preparedness for the 2027 general elections.

“The conduct of the Osun governorship election will either strengthen public confidence in our electoral system or deepen existing concerns about the integrity of the democratic process.

“I therefore call on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to rise to the occasion. The commission must demonstrate transparency, professionalism, impartiality, and strict adherence to the law. Every vote cast must count, every result must reflect the will of the electorate, and every eligible voter must be allowed to exercise his or her democratic right without fear or intimidation.

“I equally call upon security agencies to maintain neutrality and professionalism. Their duty is to protect democracy, not political interests. The presence of security personnel should reassure voters, not frighten them.

“Political parties and candidates must also conduct themselves responsibly. Elections should be contests of ideas, programmes, and visions for development, not battles characterised by violence, threats, or manipulation.

“Civil society organisations, election observers, the media, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and community stakeholders must continue to play their vital role in promoting transparency and accountability throughout the electoral process.”

He therefore urged the people of the state to remain peaceful, vigilant, and actively engaged, saying, “Democracy belongs to the people, and its survival depends on citizens who are prepared to defend their rights through lawful and peaceful means.

“The lessons from Osun will resonate far beyond its borders. What happens here in August will send a powerful message about the future of elections in Nigeria and the prospects for a credible and peaceful 2027 general election. If we get Osun right, we will strengthen confidence in our democratic institutions. If we fail, we risk further eroding public trust in the electoral process.”

Meanwhile, Governor Ademola Adeleke, who was represented at the event by his deputy, urged residents of the state to continue to participate peacefully and constructively in the democratic process.