INEC Transfers Osun REC to Ondo Amid Interference Fears

The Independent National Electoral Commission has transferred Dr. Mutiu Agboke, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, to Ondo State, prompting concerns from state lawmakers about potential interference in the upcoming 2026 governorship election. The move, announced by Agboke himself on Wednesday via the Osun INEC media platform, occurs as preparations intensify for the August 15 poll in the southwestern Nigerian state.

Agboke, who assumed the role in November 2022 after serving two terms in Oyo State, expressed gratitude to staff, media, and stakeholders for their support during his three-and-a-half-year tenure. In his brief statement, he wrote, "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." During his time in office, Agboke oversaw the 2023 general elections in Osun without reported major disruptions. INEC has described the redeployment as part of routine staff rotations to enhance operations nationwide, though no successor has been named.

On Thursday, Speaker Adewale Egbedun of the Osun State House of Assembly addressed journalists in...