By Our Correspondent

National News – The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has criticised the Osun State House of Assembly for linking the redeployment of a senior electoral official to political interference.

The party described the allegation against Adegboyega Oyetola as baseless, stressing that routine administrative decisions within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should not be politicised.

The controversy began when the Assembly accused Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, of influencing the redeployment of Osun Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mutiu Agboke, to Ondo State.

The claim was raised by Speaker Wale Egbedun, who suggested the move could affect preparations for the 2026 Osun governorship election.

Reacting on Friday in Osogbo, APC spokesperson Kola Olabisi dismissed the allegation as “frivolous and unsubstantiated.”

He explained that INEC has the constitutional authority to transfer its officials nationwide, adding that such redeployments are standard practice and not politically motivated.

According to him, the Assembly’s claims lack evidence and appear aimed at shaping public perception ahead of the election.

Olabisi further argued that lawmakers should focus on their legislative duties rather than interfering in the internal operations of INEC.

He warned that dragging the electoral body into political disputes could undermine public confidence in the democratic process.

Meanwhile, Agboke confirmed his transfer in a brief message to journalists, expressing appreciation for the support he received during his tenure in Osun.

His redeployment comes at a crucial time as political parties intensify preparations for the 2026 governorship poll in the state.

The APC also alleged that opposition elements were attempting to create unnecessary tension, claiming their concerns stem from fears of declining popularity.

The party maintained that electoral processes must remain transparent and free from political manipulation.