BON Commends INEC for Credible Osun Governorship Election

The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), led by Prof. Joash Akin Akin Amupitan, for conducting what it described as a transparent, free, fair and credible governorship election in Osun State.

BON, in a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Dr. Yemisi Bamgbose, described the Osun governorship election as a “real litmus test” for the electoral commission, noting that its outcome could serve as a model for subsequent elections in Nigeria if the gains recorded are sustained and improved upon.

The broadcasting body said INEC deserved commendation for deploying the necessary personnel, logistics and processes to facilitate a peaceful and credible electoral exercise.

BON also praised the security agencies for providing adequate security throughout the election, saying their efforts helped minimise tension, violence and other forms of criminality during the exercise.

However, the organisation urged INEC and other relevant authorities not to stop at conducting credible elections, but to ensure that those found culpable of electoral offences are prosecuted in accordance with the law.

It stressed that the prosecution of electoral offenders would serve as a strong deterrent and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.

“We therefore call on INEC and other relevant agencies to ensure strict enforcement of electoral laws and prosecution of all offenders,” BON said.

The organisation urged stakeholders to build on the lessons from the Osun election to further strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system and ensure that subsequent elections meet the highest standards of transparency, fairness and credibility.

DR. YEMISI BAMGBOSE
Executive Secretary
Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON)