The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has said the Osun state governorship election is a milestone that must shape the commission’s planning for the 2027 general election.
He stated this known on Sunday while formally closing the #OsunDecides2026 Situation Room, following the conclusion of the election and declaration of results in the early hours of the day.
He commended INEC staff at the national, state and local government levels, as well as field personnel and technical teams, for their dedication, sacrifice and professionalism throughout the process.
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The Chairman noted that many staff worked long hours, sacrificed time with their families and operated under demanding conditions to ensure the election was conducted successfully and the integrity of the process was protected.
He also attributed the peaceful conduct of the poll to “the grace and protection of Almighty God.”
He urged staff to maintain a higher level of vigilance, transparency, professionalism and commitment, and to remain strictly neutral in carrying out their duties.
The INEC Chairman further called on personnel to recognise the critical role the Commission plays in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.
“Let us learn from our experience, refine our strategies and approach the upcoming national task with renewed vigour and absolute neutrality. Let us remain steadfast in our duty, knowing that we are the gatekeepers of our nation’s democracy,” he said.
With that, Prof. Amupitan formally declared the #OsunDecides2026 Situation Room closed, ending the commission’s central monitoring and oversight operations for the Osun governorship election.