The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has formally closed the Commission’s Situation Room following the successful conclusion of the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election and the declaration of the result in the early hours of Sunday.
Amupitan announced the closure while addressing officials and staff at the Situation Room, commending them for their dedication, professionalism and sacrifice throughout the electoral process.
He praised personnel at the Commission’s headquarters, Osun State and local government offices, as well as those deployed to polling units and technical teams, for working under demanding conditions to ensure the successful conduct of the election.
The INEC chairman acknowledged the long hours put in by staff, noting that many had sacrificed valuable time with their families to support the electoral process and safeguard its integrity.
He also attributed the peaceful atmosphere that characterised the election to the grace and protection of Almighty God.
Describing the Osun election as a milestone rather than a destination, Amupitan said the experience and lessons from the exercise would be critical to INEC’s preparations for the 2027 General Election.
He urged staff to sustain higher standards of vigilance, transparency and professionalism while maintaining strict neutrality in the discharge of their responsibilities.
“Let us learn from our experience, refine our strategies and approach the upcoming national task with renewed vigour and absolute neutrality. Let us remain steadfast in our duty, knowing that we are the gatekeepers of our nation’s democracy,” he said.
Amupitan further urged INEC personnel to remain committed to the Commission and recognise their critical responsibility in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The formal closure of the Situation Room brought to an end INEC’s central monitoring and oversight operations for the Osun governorship election, following the declaration of the final result.
The chairman said the successful completion of the exercise would provide valuable operational lessons as the Commission continues preparations for the 2027 national elections.
