CSOs Rate INEC's Preparedness for Ekiti Election at 34%

Seven civil society organizations (CSOs) have expressed concerns regarding the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) preparedness for the upcoming Ekiti State off-cycle governorship election scheduled for April 14, 2026. They rated INEC's readiness at only 34%, highlighting that delays in funding could jeopardize the electoral exercise.

The coalition, which includes Yiaga Africa, International Press Centre (IPC), Kukah Centre, Centre for Media Studies (CEMESO), Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF), and TAF Africa, warned that unresolved issues could undermine efforts to deliver a transparent, credible, peaceful, and inclusive election. During a media briefing in Ado Ekiti, lead speaker Dr.

Akin Akingbulu and Samson Itodo emphasized the significance of the Ekiti governorship election as a critical milestone in Nigeria's democratic journey, serving as a precursor to the 2027 general elections. They noted the absence of female candidates across 13 political parties and stressed that the integrity of the polls hinges on security, transparency, and public acceptance of the election outcomes.