The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has redeployed its Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Osun State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, following mounting political pressure and allegations of partisanship ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
The decision comes after petitions were reportedly submitted to the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, by political stakeholders raising concerns over the commissioner’s neutrality.
Both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) had called for Agboke’s removal, citing fears over the credibility of the electoral process as preparations intensify for the August 15 governorship poll.
However, not all voices aligned with the calls for his redeployment. A coalition group, Osun Democrats for Democracy (ODD), rejected the demands and expressed confidence in INEC’s leadership in the state. The group maintained that the commission had so far demonstrated fairness and neutrality in its electoral preparations.
Confirming the development, Agboke announced his redeployment to Ondo State in a brief message shared via a WhatsApp platform created for journalists in Osun.
“Good evening all. I have been transferred to Ondo State. I thank you most sincerely for the support given to me throughout my stay here in Osun State. May God Almighty support you all as well,” he wrote.
The redeployment is seen as a strategic move by the electoral body to address concerns and maintain public trust as the state heads toward a crucial governorship election.
