KDI Summit Unites INEC, Police, Traditional Rulers Against Vote Buying in Osun  

By Omidiran Seun

Ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election in Osun State, security agencies have issued a stern warning to vote buyers, while stakeholders across the state pledged to ensure a peaceful, credible, and transparent process.  

The commitments were made at the Osun Election Peace and Security Summit (EPSS) 2026, convened by KIMPACT Development Initiative (KDI) at Aurora Hall, Ring Road, Osogbo. 

The summit brought together traditional rulers, security chiefs, INEC officials, political actors, religious leaders, civil society groups, and development partners to build confidence and prevent electoral violence.  

Speaking on behalf of the Ooni of Ife, the Agbolu of Ageaje, Oba Adekunle Adebowale, called on politicians, supporters, and voters to maintain peace before, during, and after the election. He emphasized that political differences should not result in violence.  

The Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Omoniyi Abolarin, Aroyinkeye I, also condemned inflammatory campaigns and politically motivated killings, urging Osun residents to make the poll a model of peaceful conduct.  

Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, Umar Nadada, representing the IGP, said security agencies are fully prepared to protect lives and property. 

He warned that anyone caught buying or selling votes, snatching ballots, or disrupting the election will face prosecution.  

Nadada also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the media to promote peaceful coexistence and responsible engagement.  

INEC Chairman’s representative, Prof. Kunle Ajayi, assured stakeholders of a free, fair, credible, inclusive, and conclusive election. 

He stressed INEC’s impartiality and called for cooperation from parties, candidates, and voters.  

Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, confirmed that preparations are on track. The updated voters’ register was presented to parties on July 9. 

She noted that 30,639 duplicate registrations were removed and 8,201 Persons With Disabilities were registered. Over 2 million eligible voters are on the roll, with non-sensitive materials already deployed.  

KDI Team Lead, Bukola Idowu, disclosed that Osun recorded 56 election-related violent incidents and 14 deaths in the past 12 months. He referenced the peace accord signed four years ago on July 13 and stressed the need for sustained peacebuilding.  

KDI recommended stronger collaboration among INEC, security agencies, political parties, civil society, and community leaders to prevent violence.  

Religious leaders from Christian, Muslim, and traditional institutions jointly urged politicians and residents to reject violence.  

Political parties at the summit — including AAC, BOOTS Party, ADC, and APC representatives — pledged to conduct peaceful campaigns.  

Dr. Mathew Ayibakuro, Governance Adviser at the UK FCDO, commended the summit and emphasized that peaceful elections are vital for inclusive governance, especially for women, youths, and persons with disabilities.  

The summit concluded with a collective call for tolerance, respect for the rule of law, and rejection of hate speech and inducement. Stakeholders expressed confidence that collaboration among all actors will deliver a credible and accepted election on August 15, 2026.