By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Mutiu Agboke, has cautioned corps members against involvement in electoral malpractice during the 2026 governorship election, warning that offenders will face imprisonment.
He gave the warning on Tuesday during a visit to the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ede. He explained that INEC has strengthened its systems to prevent both permanent and ad-hoc personnel from compromising the electoral process.
Agboke noted that corps members, who serve as electoral officials, are entrusted with full control of polling units, making thorough training crucial. According to him, the 2026 election is expected to be highly competitive, and politicians may attempt to influence or lure corps members, stressing the need for vigilance.
He assured that INEC would fully cater for the welfare of corps members, with prompt payment of allowances and other entitlements. He added that the commission is determined to make the 2026 poll an improvement on the 2023 elections.
His words, “We discovered many complaints and allegations involving corps members during previous elections,” he said. “To address this, we decided to engage them directly and bring them closer to the commission. That is the main purpose of this visit—to educate them on the fundamentals of the job. Election is work, and that one year of service is also for them to work for us.”
Agboke urged corps members to take their training seriously and avoid absenteeism, describing the exercise as a vital component of the election process. He reminded them that INEC is constitutionally empowered to conduct both general and off-season elections, and that elections exist to ensure proper representation.
He further encouraged corps members to avoid violence, remain alert to any threats on election day, and resist pressure, deceit, or collusion with politicians.
In his remarks, the NYSC Osun State Coordinator, Agbor Ndoma Obim, praised INEC for its continuous support of Nigeria’s electoral system. He stated that corps members are prepared to participate fully in all INEC activities leading up to the 2026 governorship election and expressed appreciation for the commission’s enlightenment efforts.
