Protesters storm INEC stakeholders’ meeting, demand credible Osun election

Proceedings at the stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the Osun State governorship election were delayed by about 30 minutes following a protest by individuals carrying placards.

The meeting, which was convened to discuss measures for a peaceful conduct of the election scheduled for August 15, was disrupted shortly after the arrival of the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan.

The protesters entered the venue calling for a peaceful election and displaying placards with messages such as “One man one vote,” “We don’t want violence,” “INEC give us free election,” and “BVAS must work,” among others.

The demonstration remained peaceful as the protesters moved around the hall with their placards before the meeting continued.

The arrival of the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Gotan Ibrahim, however, generated mixed reactions from participants.

While representatives of several political parties present booed the commissioner, supporters of one party applauded him with a standing ovation.

The reaction followed concerns over recent violence recorded in Osun State, with some individuals accusing the police of taking sides.

The commissioner’s address was largely disrupted by shouts and jeers from some members of the audience.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, told the INEC chairman that the political tension in Osun State had reached an unacceptable level.

“The political tension in Osun is extremely unbearable for us. We do not wish to disrupt the process. We desire a peaceful election,” the monarch said.