Nigeria’s Osun State holds governorship rerun elections

Voters in four local government areas in Nigeria's Osun State are heading to the polls today to determine the fate of the governorship aspirants after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared the last election results inconclusive. The rerun election is being closely monitored by both local and international observers to ensure a free and fair electoral process. Olusegun Agbaje, INEC's Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, provided an update on the election process in an interview on CNBC Africa. Agbaje noted that materials were delivered to the various polling stations early in the morning, signaling a smooth start to the event. According to Agbaje, reports from the field indicate that the voting process is proceeding smoothly in the various areas, with some minor issues reported. He reassured the public that measures are in place to address any challenges that may arise. Security measures have been heightened in the region, with security personnel deployed to ensure the safety of voters and prevent any attempts to disrupt the election process. The commissioner highlighted the presence of journalists and election observers in the region, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in the electoral process. He outlined the sequence of events for the day, which includes the voting process, collation of results at the local level, and the eventual announcement of the final outcome. Agbaje emphasized the need for adherence to the established procedures to ensure a credible and peaceful election. In response to a question about voter turnout and feedback from voters, Agbaje confirmed that voters in the region feel safe and confident in the electoral process. He mentioned that some areas had increased security measures in place to reassure voters and prevent any disturbances. Compared to the previous election, Agbaje noted that the rerun election is more localized, with a focus on specific polling stations. The presence of security personnel and observers has contributed to a sense of security and stability during the voting process. Overall, the rerun election in Osun State is progressing smoothly, with stakeholders closely monitoring the process to ensure transparency and integrity. The outcome of the election will have significant implications for the state's governance and the political landscape in Nigeria.