SERAP calls for probe into Osun election irregularities
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate allegations of vote-buying, financial inducement, and violence in the 2026 Osun State governorship election. The appeal follows the declaration of Ademola Adeleke as the winner of the election. SERAP highlighted reports of widespread electoral offences and called for both domestic and international scrutiny. The group emphasized the need for transparency and accountability to protect the integrity of future elections.
What we know
- SERAP submitted a petition dated August 16, 2026, urging INEC, EFCC, and ICPC to investigate reported electoral offences in connection with the 2026 Osun State governorship election.
- Ademola Adeleke was declared the winner, defeating Bola Oyebamiji and Najeem Salaam.
- Observers recorded 323 electoral offences and irregularities across 726 polling units, including vote trading, inducement, voter obstruction, and multiple voting.
- SERAP called for the agencies to trace the sources of funds used for vote-buying and to preserve relevant evidence such as banking records and CCTV footage.
- The group urged the publication of investigation findings and recommended inviting regional and international bodies for independent scrutiny.
