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The British High Commission in Nigeria has commended Osun voters for their peaceful participation in the August 15 governorship election and congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election.
In a statement on Monday, the High Commission said it deployed accredited observers after engaging with stakeholders ahead of the poll.
It said its observations, which were largely consistent with findings from credible independent observer groups, showed several positive signs in the electoral process.
According to the Commission, polling opened as scheduled in many locations, security personnel maintained order, while Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials effectively carried out electoral procedures.
It also praised Osun voters for their patience, resilience and participation throughout election day.
However, the High Commission highlighted some concerns, including isolated incidents that caused tension before and during the election and the continued problem of vote-buying across political parties.
It also raised concerns over access to polling units for persons with disabilities and elderly voters, as well as overcrowding linked to the speed and limited availability of Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices.
The Commission urged relevant institutions to review the challenges and implement lessons from the election, including recommendations by credible groups such as the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room.
The statement said the measures would help improve public confidence, transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s electoral process.
“Most of all, we were encouraged by the patience, resilience and participation demonstrated by voters throughout the day,” the High Commission said.
It added that it had noted reports of isolated incidents and the “significant remaining challenge of voter including vote-buying, across party lines.”
The UK High Commission also looked ahead to the 2027 general elections, noting that off-cycle elections benefit from additional personnel and resources that may be difficult to replicate during nationwide polls.
It expressed hope that lessons from the Osun election would help strengthen the integrity, inclusiveness and credibility of future elections.
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