The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Osun State, has provided further clarification on allegations that underage students were registered as voters at its Ede North Local Government Office.
The clarification comes a day after reports circulated online, raising concerns over possible breaches of voter registration laws.
In a statement issued on Monday, INEC confirmed that its fact-finding team visited YTD Grammar School, Ojoro, Ede, where the implicated students were reportedly mobilized.
The Commission met with the Vice Principal, who confirmed that the students were enrolled at the school but said authorities were initially unaware of the incident until social media posts brought it to their attention.
The Vice Principal expressed regret over the situation and said measures have been taken to prevent recurrence.
He added that the matter has been reported to the All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) in Osun State and the State Ministry of Education for further administrative action.
During the verification exercise, INEC officials reminded the school management of the legal requirements for voter registration, emphasizing that only Nigerian citizens who have attained the age of 18 are eligible, as stipulated by the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2022.
The Commission warned that any future violation would be dealt with strictly under existing laws and INEC guidelines.
Speaking on the incident, INEC Osun State, under the leadership of Resident Electoral Commissioner Dr. Mutiu Agboke, reiterated its commitment to maintaining the credibility, transparency, and integrity of the voter registration process.
The Commission urged members of the public to disregard misleading narratives on social media and rely solely on official INEC communication channels for accurate information.
INEC also called on parents, guardians, school authorities, community leaders, and other stakeholders to educate young people about the legal age requirement for voter registration to avoid breaches of the law.
The Commission assured that it remains committed to discharging its statutory responsibilities with professionalism, impartiality, and strict adherence to the law.
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