INEC Urges Journalists to Combat Vote Buying in Osun

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called on journalists in Osun State to prioritize the fight against vote buying as a major focus in their coverage leading up to the governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026. This appeal was made during a media stakeholders forum held in Osogbo.

Malam Moham Kudu Haruna, the chairman of the voter education committee, urged journalists to investigate and expose electoral malpractices, highlighting the disturbing issue of vote buying observed during the June 20, 2026 Ekiti State governorship election. Mr.

Oluwatoyin Babalola, representing the Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, noted that political actors were reported to have offered cash to voters at polling units. INEC emphasized the importance of gathering evidence to support prosecutions under the Electoral Act 2026, which imposes fines and imprisonment for vote trading.

The commission also reported a decline in voter turnout and urged media organizations to intensify voter education efforts. Adeyemi Aboderin, chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Osun State, pledged support for journalists in combating vote buying.