Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Security operatives have arrested a man suspected of impersonating an official of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State, following the recovery of voting materials in his possession. The arrest occurred on Saturday, August 15, 2026, the morning of the state's governorship election, according to reports monitored by Stone Reporters.
The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was apprehended after he was found in possession of materials believed to be connected to the electoral process. While details remain sketchy, sources indicate that the suspect may have been planning to use the materials to disrupt or manipulate the voting process. The arrest comes amid a series of election-related detentions in the state, as security agencies intensify efforts to ensure a credible and peaceful poll.
The arrest of the suspected fake INEC official is the latest in a string of incidents that have marred the buildup to the August 15 election. On Friday night, police reportedly arrested 33 persons allegedly brought into Osun from neighbouring Ondo and Ekiti states, with the suspects said to be in possession of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) showing registration in those states. The suspects were arrested at Babs Hotel in Ede following an intelligence-led operation by officers attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department. Preliminary interrogation linked the alleged mobilisation to a senior member of the Accord Party, who reportedly promised the suspects financial rewards after they voted for Governor Adeleke.
In a separate incident, over 100 suspected "imported" voters were arrested after they were allegedly camped at the residence of Hon. Abiola Ibrahim, a member of the Osun State House of Assembly representing the Irewole-Isokan Constituency. The individuals were reportedly carrying newly issued PVCs. During interrogation, Ibrahim reportedly admitted that the group had been staying at his residence and claimed they were there to vote for the Accord Party.
The arrest of the suspected impersonator underscores the determination of security agencies to crack down on electoral fraud. The Nigeria Police Force had earlier warned against vote buying, impersonation, and other electoral offences, vowing to arrest and prosecute offenders. The police had also imposed a statewide restriction on movement from midnight on Friday, August 14, until 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, as part of measures to secure the election. Helicopters and drones were deployed for aerial surveillance, while 31 Commissioners of Police were stationed across the 30 local government areas.
As of press time, it remained unclear which security agency carried out the arrest, the exact number of people detained, or whether the suspect had been formally charged with an electoral offence. Authorities are expected to provide further clarification on the identities of those arrested and the circumstances surrounding their possession of the voting materials.
The election, which pits incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party against the All Progressives Congress candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, and other contenders, has been marked by heightened political tension and allegations of electoral irregularities. The Accord Party had previously accused security and other federal institutions of targeting its members and supporters ahead of the poll. In a petition dated August 12, 2026, the party's National Chairman, Maxwell Mgbudem, appealed to the European Union to intervene in what he described as a worsening political crisis in the state. As voting continues, the focus remains on the integrity of the electoral process and the ability of security agencies to maintain order and ensure that every vote counts.
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