By John Dike, Osogbo
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Osun State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, has underscored the pivotal role of grassroots promoters of democracy in ensuring a credible, peaceful and inclusive governorship election in the state in 2026.
He spoke as a guest speaker at the Annual Meeting of the JDPMC Osogbo Good Governance Committee, held at the Bishop’s Court, Oke Ayepe, Osogbo.
The meeting drew participants from across Osun State and focused on the theme, “Osun 2026 Gubernatorial Election: The Role of Grassroots Promoters of Democracy and Good Governance.”
In his address, the REC described grassroots actors including community leaders, civil society organisations, faith-based institutions, as well as youth and women groups—as the critical bridge between INEC and the electorate.
He said their influence at the community level positions them as the first line of defence against misinformation, voter apathy, political violence, vote buying and other electoral malpractices.
According to him, as preparations begin for the 2026 Osun governorship election, grassroots promoters are not passive observers but active stakeholders and custodians of democratic values whose engagement helps to deepen participation and sustain democratic governance.
Agboke reaffirmed INEC Osun State’s unwavering commitment to the conduct of free, fair, credible and inclusive elections, in line with the provisions of the Constitution and the Electoral Act.
He assured stakeholders that the commission would continue to strengthen voter education, logistics planning and collaboration with security agencies to guarantee a transparent electoral process.
The REC further highlighted voter education, peaceful political participation and the fight against misinformation and hate speech as key responsibilities of grassroots democracy promoters.
He urged them to use their platforms to educate citizens on lawful electoral conduct and to discourage acts capable of undermining public confidence in the process.
He also stressed the need for collective vigilance against vote buying and emerging security threats, calling on citizens to promptly report suspicious activities. “When you see something, say something,” he said, noting that protecting the integrity of elections is a shared responsibility.
The event provided an interactive platform for discussions on electoral integrity, good governance and community participation, with participants commending INEC for its engagement with grassroots stakeholders and pledging continued support for peaceful and credible elections in Osun State.
