The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has included the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, Dr. Francis Olugbenga Ajala, and his running mate, Faseke Babajimi Oladipo, on the ballot for the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election.

The development follows a court order directing the electoral commission to recognise the SDP candidate and his running mate ahead of the poll.
With the latest decision, Ajala will now participate in Saturday’s governorship election alongside other candidates cleared by INEC to contest the keenly contested poll.
The inclusion of the SDP candidate comes just days before Osun residents head to the polls to elect the next governor of the state.
INEC’s decision is expected to further shape the political contest, with candidates and political parties intensifying their campaigns ahead of the election.
More details on the court order and INEC’s decision are expected to emerge.





