INEC Identifies 385 Flashpoints, 200 Difficult Terrains Ahead of Osun Governorship Election

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, has disclosed that the commission has identified 385 flashpoints across the state and shared the information with security agencies as part of preparations for the forthcoming governorship election.

Babalola said the commission also mapped about 200 difficult terrains to assist security agencies and election officials in planning their operations, noting that several communities in the state remain inaccessible due to poor road conditions.

She explained that INEC had intensified its preparedness by conducting risk management training for its personnel, stressing that the commission is currently operating within what she described as the “amber zone” of the electoral cycle.

According to her, field officers will be deployed across the 13 local government areas participating in the election to conduct on-the-ground risk assessments and monitor the security situation.

The REC added that the commission has been equipping its staff with the knowledge and skills needed to manage risks and remain calm while carrying out their duties during the election.

Babalola revealed that she had personally visited 29 of the state’s 30 local government areas, including Ila and Ifedayo, where incidents of kidnapping and other violent crimes have raised security concerns.

She, however, clarified that while she would not describe the situation in those areas as banditry, there are significant security challenges that require close attention.

The REC said she had reassured INEC staff that security agencies had provided adequate assurances of safety, expressing confidence that the election would be conducted in a peaceful environment.

“I receive messages on a daily basis from staff asking whether they should open their offices or even report for work. I have assured them that the security agencies have given us confidence that adequate measures are in place to ensure a peaceful environment,” she said.