National News – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State has assured residents of a peaceful, credible and transparent governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026, amid concerns over the transfer of former Resident Electoral Commissioner Dr Mutiu Agboke.

The assurance was given in Osogbo on Tuesday by the new REC, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, through officials, while market women and civil society groups protested at the INEC office, alleging that the redeployment could affect neutrality.

INEC dismissed the claims, stating the transfer was administrative under civil service rules and not politically motivated, and reaffirmed that measures are in place to ensure votes will count.

Protesters, including traders and civil society coordinators, submitted a petition and urged the electoral body to maintain strict impartiality, insisting that any perceived interference could undermine public trust.

Local reactions in Osogbo reflected anxiety over past electoral controversies in Nigeria, with some residents calling for stronger transparency guarantees ahead of the poll.

INEC officials stressed that staff transfers are routine administrative decisions and do not affect electoral integrity.

Analysts say such disputes often arise before major polls in Osun State, underscoring the need for voter education, security readiness and stronger public communication to reduce misinformation and distrust.

Observers believe the commission’s reassurance will be tested by how effectively it manages public confidence and security ahead of the August poll.

The situation highlights broader concerns about trust in electoral institutions in Nigeria, where transparency and perceived neutrality remain critical to democratic credibility.