SERAP Urges INEC: Act on Osun Election Violence

• SERAP has urged INEC to identify, document, and publicly report incidents of political violence in Osun State ahead of the governorship election.
• INEC is responsible for maintaining a peaceful environment for elections under Nigerian electoral law.
• The rising instances of political violence threaten the integrity of the election process and public confidence in democracy.

According to the Electoral Act 2026, INEC has the authority to take measures to prevent violence and ensure that voters are not intimidated or coerced into casting their votes in any particular way.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a call to action for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding the escalating instances of political violence, threats, and intimidation in Osun State ahead of the governorship election scheduled for Saturday. According to SERAP's request, INEC should promptly identify, document, and publicly disclose these incidents. This move by SERAP is part of its ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in Nigeria's electoral process.

SERAP has been vocal about addressing the issue of political violence in Nigeria, particularly in the context of upcoming elections. The organization believes that INEC, as the primary agency responsible for overseeing elections, must take concrete steps to prevent and address these incidents. By urging INEC to act on this matter, SERAP aims to ensure that voters are protected from intimidation and threats.

The Nigerian electoral law places significant responsibilities on INEC to maintain a peaceful and secure environment for elections. According to the Electoral Act 2026, INEC has the authority to take measures to prevent violence and ensure that voters are not intimidated or coerced into casting their votes in any particular way. Furthermore, INEC is also required by law to report any incidents of political violence or intimidation to the relevant authorities. By failing to act on these incidents, INEC may be seen as derelict in its duties under Nigerian electoral law.

The rising instances of political violence in Osun State have raised concerns about the potential for electoral irregularities and the impact on the integrity of the election process. Lawyers and compliance officers should be vigilant in monitoring these developments and advising their clients accordingly.

The Osun governorship election is a critical test case for Nigeria's democratic institutions, particularly INEC's ability to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process. The increasing instances of political violence threaten the very foundation of democracy in Nigeria. If left unchecked, these incidents could undermine public confidence in the electoral process and potentially lead to widespread unrest.

It is essential that INEC takes immediate action to address these concerns and uphold its obligations under Nigerian electoral law. By doing so, INEC can help maintain a peaceful environment for voters and ensure that the election process remains free from intimidation and coercion.

Lawyers and compliance officers should watch for potential electoral irregularities and ensure their clients are aware of the risks of political violence ahead of the Osun State governorship election.

Source: Original reporting via Vanguard News