INEC Adds SDP's Ajala to Osun Guber Election Ballot

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially included Dr. Francis Ajala, the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and his running mate Faseke Oladipo on the ballot for the upcoming Osun State governorship election set for August 15, 2026. This decision was made in compliance with a Federal High Court ruling delivered on July 22, 2026, in Suit No.

FHC/ABJ/CS/344/2026, which mandated INEC to recognize and publish Ajala's candidacy. INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, stated that the ballot papers and result sheets are being reproduced to reflect this addition, increasing the total number of political parties contesting the election to 15.

The revised ballot papers are scheduled to arrive in Osun State on August 13, 2026, and will be distributed to local government area offices in accordance with INEC's standard procedures. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election.