Osun Governorship: LP Faction Demands Reversal Of REC’s Transfer

National Vice Chairman (South West) of the Labour Party, Abayomi Arabambi, has criticised the recent transfer of Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mutiu Agboke, describing the move as unconstitutional and a threat to democratic processes.

He called on President Bola Tinubu to reverse the decision and reinstate Agboke to his position.

At a press conference in Abuja, Arabambi expressed concern over what he described as a troubling pattern of administrative actions within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning that such developments could undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

Agboke was redeployed from Osun to Ondo State on April 8, ahead of the Osun governorship election scheduled for August 2026. INEC, through its Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Victoria Eta-Messi, defended the move, stating that it was a routine administrative exercise and not connected to the upcoming election.

However, Arabambi argued that the appointment and removal of Resident Electoral Commissioners are governed strictly by constitutional provisions, not the discretion of the INEC Chairman. Citing relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution, he maintained that RECs are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, and therefore cannot be removed without due process.

He further alleged that the transfer followed a petition from the Osun State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), suggesting undue political influence. According to him, Agboke was neither investigated nor given an opportunity to defend himself before the decision was taken.

Arabambi questioned the absence of any formal inquiry, evidence, or fair hearing in the process, warning that allowing such actions could set a dangerous precedent where political actors manipulate the composition of electoral officials.

He also urged the INEC Chairman to provide proof that due process was followed, insisting that the decision exceeded constitutional authority and lacked the required approval from both the President and the Senate.

The Labour Party chieftain cautioned that if left unchecked, similar actions could occur in other states, potentially compromising the integrity of future elections.

He called on President Tinubu to intervene by directing the immediate reinstatement of Agboke, as well as issuing clear guidelines to prevent the transfer or removal of RECs close to elections without full constitutional compliance.

Arabambi stressed that maintaining the independence and credibility of INEC is essential for free, fair, and peaceful elections, particularly as the country approaches another electoral cycle.