As Osun State prepares for the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in August, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a firm warning: no minors, no foreigners, and no double registrations.
Dr. Mutiu Agboke, the Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, made the statement during a visit to the Olowu of Kuta, Oba Hammed Adekunle Makama, as part of a voter education campaign.
“Don’t allow minors to register. If caught, it’s punishable under the Electoral Act. And no foreigner can register unless they are legally Nigerian,” he said.
Registration is free — no payments allowed
Agboke emphasized that the CVR exercise is completely free, warning citizens not to pay anyone to get registered.
He also clarified that the exercise is a chance for voters to:
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Correct errors from previous registrations
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Replace lost or damaged PVCs
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Transfer polling units
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Register for the first time
He added that online pre-registration starts August 18, while physical registration and biometric capture will begin at INEC offices across Osun on August 25.
“Double registration is also a punishable offence,” he warned.
Traditional rulers urged to mobilise voters
The INEC boss called on the Olowu and other traditional leaders to encourage their communities to register. While the 2026 Osun governorship election is on the horizon, Agboke said the immediate priority is the CVR.
“Without a PVC, you can’t vote. We need our people to come out now, not later,” he said.
In response, the Olowu of Kuta expressed full support for the initiative, promising to rally traditional rulers and political leaders across the state.
“We’ll carry the advocacy to every resident. INEC must succeed in this,” he said.
INEC seeks NSCDC support for secure registration
Dr. Agboke also paid a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Osun State to seek security collaboration ahead of the CVR.
“Anything can happen to disrupt this process. We need your men to help keep it peaceful,” he told Commandant Sotiyo Emmanuel Igbalawole.
The NSCDC boss responded with assurance:
“We’ll be on ground throughout the state. Special attention will be given toward the end of the registration, and we’ll work with INEC to ensure the success of the 2026 elections.”
