The Independent National Electoral Commission has added the Social Democratic Party to the ballot for the Osun governorship election as preparations intensify for the poll.
The commission reproduced the ballot papers following a Federal High Court judgment delivered in Abuja on July 22, which directed INEC to recognise and publish the candidature of the SDP governorship candidate, Dr Olugbenga Ajala, and his running mate, Faseke Oladipo.
With the inclusion of the SDP, the number of political parties participating in Saturday’s August 15 governorship election has increased to 15. INEC is also reproducing the result sheets to reflect the new addition.
As preparations enter a crucial stage, the commission is scheduled to begin distributing sensitive election materials to the 30 local government areas of Osun State from the Central Bank of Nigeria premises in Osogbo.
INEC’s spokesperson in the state, Musa Olurode, confirmed that the materials would be distributed ahead of the election, with journalists expected to be informed of the commencement time.
Ajala said the court battle and the delay in securing his recognition had left the SDP with very little time to campaign before the election. Despite the setback, he expressed confidence that the party could still make an impact at the polls.
The SDP candidate said the party would assess its next steps after the election but maintained that its supporters remained hopeful of victory.
INEC assured political parties, candidates and voters that it remained committed to conducting a free, fair and credible governorship election as the final preparations continue across Osun State.