Protest Rocks Ota-Efun Polling Unit Over Ballot Paper Shortage, Missing Names

According to report by Nigerian Tribune on Saturday, August 15, 2026, a protest broke out at Polling Unit 3, Ward 8, in Ota-Efun, within the Olorunda Local Government Area of Osogbo, Osun State, as voters and political party agents raised concerns over alleged shortages of ballot papers and missing names on the voters’ register during Saturday’s governorship election.

The development reportedly caused tension at the polling unit, with voting yet to commence as of 12:25 p.m.

Voters who had arrived to participate in the election expressed frustration after discovering that their names could not be located on the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) register displayed at the polling station.

The situation prompted voters and party representatives to confront INEC officials, demanding clarification over the accreditation difficulties and the apparent shortage of election materials.

According to observations from the polling unit, a significant number of registered voters were affected by the problem, raising concerns about whether eligible residents would be able to exercise their franchise before the close of voting.

Reports indicated that INEC officials had supplied the polling unit with 1,178 ballot papers.

However, the unit reportedly has 2,354 registered voters, meaning the number of ballot papers available was significantly lower than the total number of registered voters.

The discrepancy between the number of registered voters and ballot papers further fueled the protest, with those present calling on election officials to address the situation promptly.

The incident occurred as voters across Osun State participated in the governorship election, with officials expected to ensure that eligible voters were accredited and provided with the necessary materials to cast their ballots.

The situation at Ota-Efun added to other concerns reported at some polling locations during the election, particularly regarding accreditation and the availability of election materials.

Voters remained at the polling unit awaiting a resolution that would allow the voting process to proceed.

COURTESY: Ladipsmews