PDP, LP missing as INEC releases candidates list for 2026 Osun governorship poll

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates for the forthcoming 2026 governorship election in Osun State, with the notable absence of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP).

The governorship election in the South-West state is scheduled to hold on August 8, 2026.

In a statement issued by the Commission’s Public Relations Officer in Osun State, Musa Olurode, the electoral body said a number of political parties successfully fulfilled the requirements stipulated by the commission to participate in the poll.

According to INEC, the parties cleared to contest the election include Accord (A), Action Alliance (AA), African Action Congress (AAC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Democratic Party (ADP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), All Progressives Congress (APC), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party (BP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Young Progressive Party (YPP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

The electoral body explained that the publication of the final list of candidates represents a critical milestone in the electoral timetable, enabling political parties and their candidates to intensify campaigns and mobilization efforts ahead of the vote.

INEC emphasized that the step is in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act and its approved timetable for the 2026 Osun governorship election.

Political analysts say the absence of the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party from the final list could significantly reshape the contest, particularly given the traditional influence of the PDP in Osun State politics.

Observers note that the development may open up the race to a wider field of smaller parties while also potentially strengthening the position of the All Progressives Congress, which remains one of the dominant political forces in the state.

INEC assured voters that preparations for the election are progressing according to schedule and reiterated its commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible governorship poll on August 8, 2026.