By our Reporter
Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has formally declared the Commission’s #OsunDecides2026 Situation Room closed following the conclusion of the Osun State Governorship Election and the declaration of the results in the early hours of Sunday.
Amupitan declared the Situation Room closed while addressing staff involved in the Commission’s central monitoring and oversight operations for the election.
The INEC Chairman expressed appreciation to staff for their dedication, sacrifice and professionalism throughout the electoral process, commending personnel at the Commission’s headquarters, Osun State and local government offices, as well as those deployed to polling units and technical teams.
He acknowledged the long hours put in by the personnel, noting that many sacrificed time with their families and worked under demanding conditions to support the successful conduct of the election and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
Amupitan also attributed the peaceful atmosphere recorded during the election to the grace and protection of Almighty God.
Describing the Osun governorship election as a milestone rather than a destination, the INEC Chairman said the lessons and experiences gained from the exercise must inform the Commission’s preparations for the 2027 General Election.
He urged staff to maintain a higher level of vigilance, transparency and professionalism, while ensuring strict neutrality in the discharge of their responsibilities.
The INEC Chairman further charged staff to remain committed to the Commission’s mandate and recognise its critical role in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.
“Let us learn from our experience, refine our strategies and approach the upcoming national task with renewed vigour and absolute neutrality. Let us remain steadfast in our duty, knowing that we are the gatekeepers of our nation’s democracy,” he said.
Amupitan thereafter formally declared the #OsunDecides2026 Situation Room closed, bringing to an end INEC’s central monitoring and oversight operations for the Osun State Governorship Election.
He urged staff to carry the lessons from the exercise into subsequent electoral assignments, particularly the preparations towards the 2027 General Election.
