INEC Reprints Osun Ballots To Include SDP Candidate Ahead Of Poll

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the reprinting of ballot papers and result sheets for the Osun State Governorship Election following a court order directing the commission to include the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate in the election.

The decision comes just days before the August 15, 2026 governorship poll, with INEC saying the revised materials are being produced to reflect the addition of the SDP candidate and his running mate.

The commission said it was acting in compliance with a Federal High Court judgment delivered in Abuja on July 22, 2026, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/344/2026.

The judgment directed INEC to recognize, accept, upload, process and publish the name and particulars of Dr Ajala, the SDP governorship candidate, for the election.

His running mate, Faseke Babajimi Oladipo, has also been included in the electoral materials.

Following the judgment, INEC began reproducing the ballot papers to include the SDP candidate and his running mate. The result sheets are also being reproduced to include the SDP candidates’ names in the official documents for recording and collating the election results.

The inclusion of the SDP brings the total number of political parties contesting the Osun governorship election to 15.

INEC said the newly produced ballot papers and result sheets are expected to arrive in Osun State on Thursday, August 13, two days before voters are scheduled to cast their ballots.

Upon arrival, the materials will be moved to the commission’s Local Government Area offices across the state on the same day, in line with its established distribution procedures ahead of elections.

The timing of the reprinting adds another layer to preparations for the closely watched governorship contest, with the electoral commission working to ensure that all eligible candidates are properly represented on the ballot following the court’s decision.

The commission is expected to continue coordinating with political parties and other stakeholders as preparations enter their final stage.

INEC has also assured candidates, political parties and members of the public that the necessary electoral materials will be made available for the poll.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a free, fair and credible election, while calling on political parties, candidates and voters to maintain peace and support a smooth electoral process.