The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) has characterized the 2026 Osun State governorship election as predominantly peaceful, despite acknowledging several operational challenges and isolated incidents that marred the process. This assessment was shared in a preliminary statement released on Saturday from Abuja, signed by Dr. Dauda Garuba, the Director of CDD-West Africa, and Prof. Victor Adetula, Chairman of the Election Analysis Centre (EAC).

CDD observers monitored the election across all 30 local government areas, 332 registration areas, and 3,763 polling units in Osun State. Their findings were based on reports from field observers and credible media coverage. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was noted for a generally successful deployment of officials, with 89.1 percent of polling units observed having officials arrive before 8:30 a.m. The remaining 10.9 percent saw arrivals between 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. By 8:30 a.m., 94.5 percent of polling units had opened, according to INEC.

However, the CDD highlighted delays in specific areas, particularly in Ife Central and Aiyedire Local Government Areas. In Ife Central, concerns were raised about a political party agent allegedly possessing the voters' register prior to the arrival of INEC officials, which necessitated further investigation.

Technical difficulties were also reported, particularly with the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), which faced slow processing and issues with biometric authentication in several local government areas, including Irepodun, Ejigbo, and Osogbo. The CDD urged INEC to ensure the availability of functional backup equipment and prompt technical assistance for BVAS issues.

Reports of vote buying and voter inducement were noted at various polling stations, with observers witnessing solicitation in Ilesa East and Ola Oluwa. Allegations surfaced regarding vote buying involving agents from the APC and Accord Party in Irewole Local Government Area. Additionally, an individual was arrested by operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in Irepodun for allegedly possessing signed paper result sheets.

On the security front, while voting proceeded peacefully in many areas, there were reports of violence in Ejigbo and Modakeke. Suspected thugs disrupted voting at a polling unit in Ejigbo, where the African Democratic Congress governorship candidate, Najeem Salaam, cast his ballot. The CDD called for an independent investigation into claims that voters were tear-gassed in Modakeke and Obokun, urging security agencies to maintain neutrality and protect voters regardless of political affiliations.

In conclusion, the CDD commended the conduct of Osun voters, INEC officials, and security personnel during the election but cautioned against dismissing the isolated incidents of violence, vote buying, and technical failures that occurred throughout the process.