The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, has expressed deep concern over the rising political tension in Osun State, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a free, fair, and credible governorship election.
The monarch made the appeal on Tuesday while receiving the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Joash Amupitan, during a courtesy visit to the Ooni’s Palace ahead of the August 15, 2026, governorship election.
Addressing the INEC chairman in the presence of traditional rulers from across the state, the Ooni said the current political atmosphere had become increasingly unbearable for residents and appealed to the electoral body to remain impartial.
“Osun State is currently experiencing serious political tension, and it is becoming unbearable for our people,” the monarch said.
He stressed that traditional rulers have a responsibility to promote peace and justice, regardless of political affiliations, adding that the state’s interest must always come before partisan politics.
“Osun State is greater than any politician. We occupy the thrones of our ancestors, and our duty is to uphold justice, fairness, and integrity. We engage all political actors, whether in government or opposition, and we owe them honest counsel in the interest of peace,” he said.
The Ooni urged INEC to conduct the election without interference and allow the electorate to freely determine their preferred candidate.
“We want elections that are free, fair, and credible. Be a just and impartial referee. Allow the people to make their own choices without interference. The responsibility rests with you to ease the growing tension in the state,” he added.
He also expressed confidence in the Commission’s independence, noting that the Federal Government had provided INEC with the necessary support to discharge its constitutional responsibilities professionally.
The monarch further warned that politicians often prioritize personal interests over the welfare of the people, emphasizing that Osun residents should not continue to bear the consequences of political rivalry.
Responding, INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan acknowledged that rebuilding public confidence remains one of the Commission’s greatest challenges.
According to him, INEC is committed to restoring trust through the conduct of transparent and credible elections rather than public relations campaigns.
“My commissioners and I have resolved to rebuild public trust in INEC. That trust cannot be restored through media rhetoric alone. It must be earned by conducting elections that are credible, free, fair, and transparent,” he said.
Amupitan also raised concerns over the spread of fake news and misinformation on social media, describing the trend as a major threat to public confidence in democratic institutions.
He assured the traditional rulers and the people of Osun State that the Commission would remain committed to delivering a transparent electoral process ahead of the governorship election.
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