Vote-Buying Overshadows Logistics in Ekiti Election

Yiaga Africa, led by Executive Director Samson Itodo, observed that the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election exhibited significant improvements in electoral logistics compared to previous polls. A total of 2,445 polling units successfully opened, with 68 polling stations starting at 7:30 AM, a major increase from 27 four years prior.

However, the success in logistics was overshadowed by troubling levels of vote-buying and outbreaks of violence. Itodo warned that while there was a high voter turnout, it should not be taken at face value, and the actual turnout would determine the integrity of the electoral process.

He urged electoral officials to uphold principles of transparency and ensure peace throughout the election day, as any disruptions could affect the final count. INEC reported that 2,257 polling units, or 92.31%, opened on schedule at 8:30 AM, with minor delays affecting 188 units, which began voting at 10:30 AM.