Yiaga Africa Validates INEC Results, Raises Vote-Buying Concerns

Yiaga Africa announced that the results of the 2026 Osun State governorship election, as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), were consistent with its independent statistical estimates. The announcement was made during a statement presented by Dr Asmau Maikudi, chairperson of the Osun Election Observation Mission of Yiaga Africa, in Osogbo on Sunday.

Yiaga Africa's verification was based on reports from 289 of 300 sampled polling units, representing 96 percent of its sample. The organization deployed 300 observers and reported that INEC's official results for the Accord (51.9%), African Democratic Congress (1.7%), and All Progressives Congress (45.2%) fell within its estimated ranges.

Despite this validation, Yiaga Africa raised concerns about widespread vote buying and voter inducement, which could compromise the integrity of voter choice. The organization also estimated voter turnout at 42.5% to 44.8%, compared to INEC's figure of 43%.

Yiaga Africa noted improvements in election logistics despite challenges faced by INEC.