Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
A total of 1,028,929 registered voters who have collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) are expected to participate in the 2026 Ekiti Governorship Election across 2,445 polling units located within 177 Registration Areas and the state's 16 Local Government Areas.
Voters checking their names on the voter register in Ado Ekiti
As part of its election observation efforts, the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), through its Media in National Elections (MiNE) project, has deployed 16 election observers across the 16 Local Government Areas of Ekiti State, alongside journalists stationed across the state's three senatorial districts to provide independent and evidence-based reporting on the electoral process. CJID has also activated its Election Observatory in Abuja, comprising conflict analysts, fact-checkers, researchers, election experts, and media support teams who are monitoring developments in real time. The Observatory is coordinating field reports, tracking incidents of misinformation and disinformation, analysing emerging electoral trends, and providing timely updates on the conduct of the election.
This statement provides an update on the commencement of voting activities across Ekiti State, based on reports from CJID observers and journalists in the field. It offers preliminary insights into the level of preparedness of election officials, the deployment of election materials, the functionality of election technologies, voter turnout, security conditions, and other key developments observed at polling units during the opening stages of the electoral process.
Opening of Polls/Accreditation and Voting Process
Reports from our observers in the field show that movement of materials from the Local Government Area (LGA) office and activation of Registration Area Centres (RACs) was done on election eve. Deployment for the Polling Units (PUs) from the RACs started as early as 5.30am with the average time of deployment being 6.15am. Observers report the presence of three polling staff per unit in the majority of polling units. There was a noticeable presence of security agents in polling units within Ado Ekiti; an observer reported the absence of security personnel in Ifisin Ekiti.
Movement of materials and personnel to polling units in Ado-Ekiti LGA
Reports from our observers indicate that polling officials and election materials arrived at polling units at varying times across the state, turnout, with an average of arrival being 7 am. In many locations, election officials were present and commenced preparations for voting. The accreditation and voting process commenced in most observed polling units on time. The Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) functioned effectively in many locations observed except for RA 06, PU 005, Ado F, where poll officials complained of BVAS malfunction.
Security Situation
Security personnel including the Nigerian Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Directorate of State Security (DSS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) were present in most polling units observed by CJID across the state. Reports from our observers indicate that security operatives have generally conducted themselves professionally, contributing to a calm and peaceful voting environment and reassuring voters and election officials.
However, CJID received a report from its observer in Isan, Oye Local Government Area, of an attack that resulted in the burning of a police station, injuries to some police personnel and the death of a citizen on 19th June 2026. While the incident is being monitored, we note that it occurred outside the polling environment, on the night before the elections, the Commissioner of Police has stated that the issue was non-election related and that calm has been restored in the area.
CJID calls on political actors, their supporters, and all stakeholders to maintain peace and refrain from actions capable of undermining the integrity of the electoral process. We further urge security agencies to sustain their professionalism, remain impartial, and respond swiftly to any threats to public safety. Citizens should continue to exercise their democratic rights peacefully and report any incidents through the appropriate channels.
Voter Turnout
Initial observations suggest a mixed voter turnout across the polling units observed by CJID with some polling units having reasonable numbers and others low. Participation by women, young people, elderly voters, and persons with disabilities was evident in many locations, with no significant barriers to access reported at the time of observation. However, CJID is concerned by reports from some polling units indicating attempts by political party agents to interfere with the voting process. Observers reported instances where party agents allegedly followed voters toward voting cubicles and sought to influence or monitor their choices, contrary to the principles of ballot secrecy and voter freedom. Such actions undermine the integrity of the electoral process and may intimidate voters or compromise their ability to make independent choices. CJID calls on INEC officials and security personnel to remain vigilant and take immediate steps to prevent any interference with voters, while ensuring that all citizens are able to cast their ballots freely, secretly, and without intimidation.
Preliminary Assessment
Based on reports received from CJID observers across the state, the election has commenced in a generally peaceful manner in many parts of Ekiti State. Election officials and security personnel have largely discharged their responsibilities professionally, with polling units opening and accreditation and voting processes commencing in several locations observed.
However, CJID notes with concern reports from multiple Registration Area Centres (RACs) alleging that some polling officials received sums ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦50,000 from political actors on the eve of the election. If verified, these allegations raise serious concerns about inducement, undue influence, and interference in the electoral process.
Such actions have the potential to compromise the neutrality, professionalism, and integrity expected of election officials and could undermine public confidence in the credibility of the electoral process. CJID calls on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently investigate these allegations and take appropriate measures to ensure that all election personnel adhere to the highest standards of impartiality and professionalism.
We further urge political parties, candidates, and their supporters to refrain from any conduct that may be perceived as an attempt to influence election officials or compromise the integrity of the process. Credible elections depend not only on the proper conduct of voting but also on the independence and neutrality of those entrusted with administering the election.
Campaign posters still hanging at a polling unit during voting
CJID observers also noted the presence of political party posters, banners, and other campaign materials around some polling units, contrary to electoral guidelines prohibiting campaigning on election day. In addition, some party supporters were observed wearing clothing and accessories displaying party symbols, candidate insignia, and identifying logos in the vicinity of polling units. These actions have the potential to influence voters and create an atmosphere inconsistent with the neutrality expected within polling environments. CJID urges INEC officials and security personnel to enforce relevant electoral regulations by ensuring the removal of campaign materials from restricted areas and discouraging any form of electioneering within or around polling units.
Signed
Akintunde Babatunde
Executive Director
Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID)
