INEC Assures Readiness for Ekiti Governorship Election, Highlights Measures Against Vote Buying, Insecurity

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared its preparedness for the forthcoming Ekiti State governorship election scheduled for June 20, 2026, assuring stakeholders of a credible, transparent, and inclusive electoral process.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ekiti State, Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, gave the assurance during a press briefing where she outlined the commission’s level of readiness and key strategies to address potential risks.

Omoseyindemi said INEC had made substantial progress in line with its election timetable, stressing that the commission remains committed to delivering a free and fair election.

On voter registration, he disclosed that the final register of voters is currently being compiled and will soon be displayed for public scrutiny and distribution to political parties. He added that details for the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) would be announced after the compilation process, urging eligible voters to collect their cards promptly, noting that only PVC holders would be allowed to vote.

The REC also revealed that the recruitment and screening of ad-hoc staff are ongoing, with training set to commence immediately after. According to him, the training will cover electoral procedures, including the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and result management protocols.

On logistics, he stated that both sensitive and non-sensitive materials are being procured as scheduled, while arrangements have been finalised for their secure movement and storage. He added that INEC is working closely with security agencies to ensure safe distribution of materials to polling units.

Omoseyindemi further confirmed that the commission would deploy the BVAS for voter accreditation, while election results would be transmitted electronically via the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) to enhance transparency.

Addressing security, he noted that INEC is collaborating with the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) to ensure a peaceful process, while calling on political actors and supporters to conduct themselves responsibly.

He said the commission has intensified stakeholder engagement, including consultations with political parties, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and the media, alongside ongoing voter education campaigns targeting women, youths, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

Highlighting inclusivity measures, the REC said provisions have been made for PWD-friendly voting, including the use of braille ballot guides, magnifying glasses, and priority voting arrangements.

Omoseyindemi also identified key risk areas specific to Ekiti State, including vote buying, political thuggery, difficult terrain, misinformation, low voter turnout, and possible weather disruptions due to the rainy season.

To address vote buying, he said security personnel would be strategically deployed around polling units, with collaboration involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to monitor and deter financial inducement.

He added that flashpoints in areas such as Ado, Ikere, and Oye would receive special security attention to curb political violence, while hard-to-reach communities like Ilejeme, Ise/Orun, and Moba would benefit from early deployment of materials and alternative transportation methods.

On misinformation, the REC said INEC would activate rapid response communication teams and partner with the media to ensure accurate reporting and fact-checking.

He further disclosed that voter education campaigns would be intensified to address voter apathy, particularly among young people, while contingency plans have been put in place to mitigate the impact of rainfall on election logistics.

Omoseyindemi urged voters to come out peacefully on election day, called on political parties to adhere to electoral guidelines, and charged the media to continue disseminating accurate information.

He reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting an election that reflects the will of the people, assuring that the commission would continue to provide updates as the election date approaches.