20/07/2026
Voter Education and Enlightenment Activities in Iwo Local Government for the Forthcoming Governorship Election in Osun State by the Development Watch Network (DWN) Team Funded by INEC
Tuesday, 14th July 2026: Sensitisation and Distribution of Voter Education Materials
On Tuesday, 14th July 2026, the Development Watch Network (DWN) team carried out a comprehensive voter education and sensitisation exercise at Odo-Ori Market, Iwo, which coincided with the community’s market day. The activity provided an excellent opportunity to engage traders, buyers, residents, and visitors from neighbouring towns, significantly expanding the reach of the voter education campaign.
During the sensitisation, the team educated members of the public on the forthcoming Osun State Governorship Election, with particular emphasis on the election date, voting time, and the importance of active citizen participation. Many participants sought clarification on when the election would be held and the time voting would commence, highlighting the relevance and timeliness of the awareness campaign.
Hundreds of voter education flyers were distributed to market users, while large-format awareness posters were displayed at strategic public locations, including Odo-Ori Market, Oja-Oba, and New Garage, to reinforce key voter education messages and ensure sustained public visibility.
The team also visited educational institutions, including Iwo Grammar School, Baptist High School, Bowen University, and adjoining communities. During these visits, teachers, non-teaching staff, students, and community members were engaged in interactive voter education sessions. The purpose of the campaign was explained, and educational materials, including flyers and posters, were distributed to participants.
The interactive sessions provided an opportunity for participants to ask questions regarding the electoral process. The team explained the voting procedures and emphasised that only eligible citizens in possession of valid Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) would be permitted to vote on election day. Participants were encouraged to turn out in large numbers, reject all forms of vote buying and electoral malpractice, remain peaceful throughout the electoral process, comply with the lawful directives of INEC officials, and conduct themselves responsibly before, during, and after voting.
Security-related concerns were also addressed during the engagement. Participants were assured that security agencies would collaborate closely with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain law and order throughout the election. It was explained that security personnel would be deployed primarily to safeguard voters, election officials, and electoral materials, while ensuring a peaceful and secure voting environment without interfering in the voting process.
In response to questions regarding the credibility and integrity of the election, the team explained the roles of INEC-accredited election observers and election monitors. Participants were informed that accredited observers would independently observe and document the conduct of the election without interfering in the process, while monitors would help assess compliance with established electoral guidelines and procedures. These mechanisms, alongside other institutional safeguards, were presented as important measures for promoting transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the electoral process.
Overall, the day’s activities recorded impressive public participation and engagement, with many participants expressing appreciation for the voter education initiative and demonstrating an improved understanding of their civic responsibilities ahead of the forthcoming Osun State Governorship Election.