In a troubling development during the ongoing governorship election in Osun State, many voters in Osogbo have reported that their names are missing from the voters’ register, preventing them from casting their ballots. This issue has left numerous individuals frustrated, particularly those who have successfully voted in previous elections at the same polling units.

At Polling Unit 017, Olaniyi Kafayah expressed her disappointment after discovering that she could not find her name on the register. She was not alone in her plight, as at least five other voters at the same polling unit faced similar challenges. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the problem may be widespread, with allegations that it could be a tactic to suppress voter turnout.

One source at the polling unit noted, "There are about five people now that have stated similar complaints here. More like a tactic to suppress them from voting." This sentiment was echoed by several elderly voters who were also unable to locate their names, further exacerbating the situation.

The difficulties in Osogbo come amid broader concerns regarding the accreditation process across Osun State. Reports indicate that many voters have encountered issues linked to the malfunctioning of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), a critical tool for ensuring the integrity of the voting process.

Osun State's Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi, voiced his dissatisfaction with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after experiencing technical faults with the BVAS at his own polling unit. "Election was going well until the BVAS started malfunctioning and started giving issues and it has slowed down the process leaving many persons not voting," he stated.

Adewusi's frustration was compounded by his unsuccessful attempts to contact INEC officials for assistance, emphasizing the urgent need for the commission to address these issues to avoid disenfranchising eligible voters. He warned that if the BVAS problems continued, many individuals could be denied their constitutional right to participate in the election.

As the situation unfolds, the implications for voter turnout and the overall integrity of the election process in Osun State remain a significant concern. The challenges faced by voters in Osogbo highlight the critical need for effective electoral management and the importance of ensuring that all eligible citizens can exercise their right to vote without hindrance.