The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reprinted ballot papers for the Osun State governorship election to include the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Dr Olugbenga Ajala, three days to the poll.
The commission will distribute sensitive materials to 30 local government areas today, Thursday, at the Central Bank of Nigeria premises in Osogbo.
INEC spokesperson in Osun, Musa Olurode, said in a phone interview, “Sensitive materials will be distributed tomorrow, and journalists will be informed of the time the exercise will commence.”
In a statement Wednesday by National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna, INEC said Ajala and his running mate Faseke Oladipo were added after a Federal High Court judgment in Abuja on July 22, 2026, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/344/2026.
The court ordered INEC to “forthwith recognise, accept, upload, process and publish” Ajala’s name as SDP candidate.
“Consequently, the ballot papers for the election, scheduled for Saturday, 15th August 2026, are being reproduced to reflect this addition, bringing to fifteen the total number of political parties contesting the election,” INEC said.
It said result sheets are also being reprinted. The commission assured of a free, fair and credible poll, according to INEC Nigeria.
Reacting, Ajala said SDP is ready for victory despite limited time.
“We were in court throughout before we got judgments. In the next 48 hours, there is very little we can do because it is like a 100-metre race. Some of the contestants have reached 75 metres out of the 100 metres. We are now coming out to the starting point,” he said.
“I am very optimistic about victory. In fact, we are joyous.”
Police Release Emergency Numbers Ahead Of Poll
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force released emergency contacts for Osun residents ahead of Saturday’s election.
In a post on X Thursday, police listed 08139235585 for Deputy Inspector-General in charge of election, 08134277587 for Commissioner of Police for election, and 08108756818 as control room for emergencies.
For complaints about police misconduct, residents can call Complaint Response Unit on 08057000001, 08057000002 or 08057000003.
“Your voice matters. Report promptly. Stay peaceful. Help us keep Osun safe,” the Force said.
The Nigeria Police Force said voters should remain peaceful and report suspicious activity.
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