The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved 14 political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Accord Party, to participate in the 2026 Osun State governorship election.
Notably absent from the list are the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party, both of which will not be on the ballot for the forthcoming contest.
The Commission’s Public Affairs Officer in Osun State, Musa Olurode, made the disclosure on Sunday on behalf of the Osun Resident Electoral Commissioner. He explained that the 14 political parties successfully fulfilled the Commission’s requirements within the stipulated timeline.
According to him, following the conclusion of party primaries, the names and particulars of candidates were duly uploaded and subsequently released by INEC Headquarters in Abuja.
Olurode cited Section 29(3) of the Electoral Act 2022 and Item 4 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the Osun State Governorship Election, stating that the Commission has published the personal particulars of candidates using Form EC9.
He said copies of each candidate’s Form EC9, along with academic credentials and other supporting documents submitted to INEC, will be displayed at the INEC State Office, all 30 Local Government Area offices, and the Area Office in Osun State on Monday, February 16, 2026.
Political parties, candidates, and members of the public have been advised to inspect the documents as provided by law. The display is a statutory transparency measure designed to allow scrutiny and, where necessary, legal challenges to the qualifications of candidates.
INEC clarified that only the 14 political parties that met the constitutional and regulatory requirements within the prescribed period are eligible to participate in the election.
The Commission, under the leadership of the Osun Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mutiu Agboke, reiterated its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and the conduct of credible elections in the state.
INEC further urged political parties and the electorate to support the Commission in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities ahead of the 2026 governorship poll.
The exclusion of the PDP and Labour Party is expected to generate significant political debate in Osun, where both parties have maintained strong followings in previous electoral cycles.