By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
Ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke has urged members of the 2026 Batch B, Stream I of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) deployed to the state to remain neutral and uphold professionalism in the discharge of any electoral responsibilities.
The governor gave the charge on Monday, while declaring open the 2026 Batch B, Stream I Orientation Course at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ede.
Represented by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Prof. Moruf Adeleke, the governor stressed that the credibility of the forthcoming election depends on the integrity of all stakeholders involved, including corps members who may serve as ad hoc election personnel.
He cautioned the corps members against actions capable of undermining the electoral process and urged them to resist undue influence from any quarter.
“As corps members, remain apolitical and professional in the discharge of your electoral duties. Do not allow the credibility of our electoral process to be marred by your actions,” he said.
“The state is looking up to you to help safeguard the integrity of the election. Shun all forms of undue influence and adhere strictly to the ideals of the NYSC as well as the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).”
Adeleke also advised the corps members to observe camp rules and regulations throughout the orientation exercise, describing discipline as a key requirement for achieving the objectives of the NYSC scheme.
He assured them of the state government’s commitment to their welfare and security and encouraged them to serve with patriotism, humility, and dedication.
Earlier, the Osun State NYSC Coordinator, Ekeng Kubiangha, disclosed that 3,000 corps members comprising 1,600 females and 1,400 males had been deployed to the state for the orientation programme.
Kubiangha commended the Osun State Government for its continued support for the scheme and echoed the call for neutrality ahead of the governorship election.
He warned corps members against accepting inducements or yielding to external pressure, noting that the success of any election depends largely on the integrity of those involved in its conduct.
“As corps members who may be called upon to participate in the electoral process, I urge you to remain apolitical, impartial, and professional in the discharge of your responsibilities,” he said.
“Do not allow yourselves to be influenced by any form of inducement or undue pressure. Adhere strictly to INEC guidelines to contribute to a peaceful, free, fair, and credible election.”
The coordinator further encouraged the corps members to embrace Nigeria’s cultural diversity by fostering friendships across ethnic, religious, and regional divides during their service year.
He also urged them to obey camp rules and regulations, describing them as essential measures for ensuring safety, promoting discipline, and enhancing personal development.
