INEC Starts Distributing Election Materials for Ekiti Governorship Poll

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has started distributing sensitive election materials for Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State. This marks the beginning of the final phase of preparations for the election.

The distribution kicked off on Thursday at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) office in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. Ballot papers, result sheets, and other important materials are being sent to the 16 local government areas. Electoral officials, security agencies, and representatives from political parties are supervising the process.

Getting these materials delivered is a key part of preparing for the election. It is important to ensure that ballot papers, result sheets, and other essentials arrive at their designated spots before polling day.

INEC officials, security personnel, and party agents are closely monitoring the distribution. Preparations are ramping up for the election, which will decide who takes over from Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who is also running for re-election.

The electoral commission has promised voters and political stakeholders that it is ready to conduct a free, fair, and credible election across all local government areas in the state.

As the distribution begins, political leaders and government officials are calling for peaceful conduct during the election. In a statewide address on Wednesday, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, a candidate for a second term, urged political stakeholders, security agencies, and voters to ensure a peaceful election.

“This current political electioneering has been the most peaceful in the history of our State, and we must do everything to ensure that the election and post-election activities remain peaceful,” he stated.

The governor emphasized that Ekiti has a reputation for peaceful elections. He called on residents to uphold the state’s democratic culture by acting responsibly before, during, and after the election.

Security agencies have increased their presence across the state to prevent any breakdown of law and order. They aim to ensure the safety of voters, election officials, and election materials.

The governorship election includes candidates from 13 political parties. This list features the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and other registered parties.

APC is putting forward Governor Oyebanji, who aims for a second term after being chosen as the party’s candidate. The PDP is presenting Oluwole Oluyede as its candidate.

Candidates from other parties have also stepped up their campaigns across the state. They are making a final push to win over voters ahead of Saturday’s election.

Political watchers see this election as a big test of political strength for both the ruling APC and opposition parties in the South-west, especially with the 2027 general elections on the horizon.

INEC has urged eligible voters to come out and fulfill their civic duty peacefully. The commission assures them that steps have been taken to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.