Tensions are rising ahead of the Osun governorship election as civil society groups have petitioned the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, over alleged irregular staff redeployments.
The petition followed a peaceful protest in Osogbo, where members of the Coalition of Concerned Nigerian Citizens expressed concerns about recent personnel changes within the commission.
According to the group, the redeployments appear selective and lack transparency, raising fears about neutrality ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship poll in Osun State.
They alleged that individuals with perceived political affiliations have been assigned to sensitive electoral roles, which could undermine public confidence in the process.
The coalition further noted that similar large-scale reshuffles were not observed in other states like Ekiti State or during the last governorship election in Anambra State.
Calling for immediate action, the group urged INEC to suspend the redeployments, carry out an independent review, and conduct a transparent audit of voter transfers in the state.
Meanwhile, reactions continue to trail the redeployment of Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mutiu Agboke, to Ondo State, with political stakeholders divided over the implications as preparations for the poll intensify.