By Augustine Ehikioya
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has added the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to the ballot for the Osun State Governorship Election scheduled for Saturday, 15th August 2026.
In a press statement signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, INEC said the action was taken in compliance with the judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja, delivered on 22nd July 2026 in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/344/2026.
The Court ordered the Commission to forthwith recognise, accept, upload, process and publish the name and particulars of Dr. Francis Olugbenga Ajala as the candidate of the Social Democratic Party, alongside his running mate, Faseke Babajimi Oladipo.
Consequently, INEC is reproducing ballot papers and result sheets to reflect the inclusion.
The addition brings to 15 the total number of political parties contesting the election.
The Commission stated that the reproduced ballot papers will arrive in Osun State on Thursday, 13th August 2026, and will be moved same day to Local Government Area offices across the State, in line with standard distribution procedures ahead of the election.
INEC assured political parties, candidates, and the general public of its commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election in Osun State.
