​The Founding National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Chekwas Okorie, has described the forthcoming Osun State governorship election as a crucial “dress rehearsal” for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, urging opposition parties and citizens to actively safeguard the country’s democratic process.
​Speaking during a national press briefing on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja, Chief Okorie warned that the conduct and outcome of the off-cycle election in Osun State would set the benchmark for electoral integrity ahead of the 2027 nationwide polls.
​Addressing journalists, political leaders, and civil society representatives, Chief Okorie emphasized that the Osun State governorship election serves as a critical test for both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies.
​”The Osun governorship poll is not merely a local contest; it is a full-scale dress rehearsal for what Nigerians should expect in the 2027 general elections,” Okorie stated. “If opposition parties fold their arms and allow electoral infractions, voter suppression, or technical compromises to go unchecked in Osun, it will pave the way for similar irregularities on a national scale in 2027.”
​Addressing party leaders, civil society organizations, and press correspondents, Chief Okorie stressed that the Osun State governorship election represents a definitive barometer for assessing the readiness, neutrality, and integrity of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies ahead of the 2027 general elections.
​He warned that any attempt to compromise the electoral process in Osun would undermine public confidence in future elections and pose a severe threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
​Speaking further at the briefing, APGA Elders Forum Spokesperson Dr. Ikechukwu Chukwunyere reiterated Chief Okorie’s call for absolute vigilance across the political landscape.
​Key demands and recommendations highlighted during the conference include Urging voters in Osun and across Nigeria to actively monitor polling unit operations, vote counting, and real-time result transmissions.
The conference focus on calling on all registered opposition parties to form a united front against any form of electoral malpractice or voter suppression. Demanding strict adherence to electoral guidelines, flawless deployment of technological infrastructure, and total transparency from electoral officials.
Key speakers admonished security agencies to act with absolute professionalism and resist being used as instruments of political intimidation.
​Chief Okorie concluded by urging Nigerians not to yield to voter apathy, emphasizing that preserving democracy requires continuous engagement, unity, and unwavering vigilance at all levels.
