The EU-SDGN Election Observation Hub has commended the performance of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) during the 2026 Ekiti gubernatorial election, while raising serious concerns about electoral malpractice. In a preliminary statement released in Ado-Ekiti, the coalition—comprising the Kukah Centre, TAF Africa, the Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF), Yiaga Africa, the International Press Centre (IPC), and the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO)—described the electoral process as generally efficient but marred by specific integrity challenges.
BVAS Success and Electoral Logistics
According to the observers, the deployment of technology was a major success, with the BVAS recording a 96 per cent functionality rate across monitored polling units. Process efficiency was also noted: data from 246 of 250 sampled units indicated early arrival of election officials and materials, with voting commencing by 8:30 a.m. in 69 per cent of observed locations. Inclusive participation was highlighted, with strong engagement from women serving as polling officials and party agents. Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) also participated actively with minimal accessibility hurdles.
Ongoing Concerns: Vote-Buying and Irregularities
Despite technological success, the hub flagged several “red flag” incidents threatening the credibility of the #EkitiDecides2026 process. Observers documented organised vote-buying activities and voter intimidation across nine Local Government Areas (LGAs). While the general security situation was described as peaceful, there were 24 reported incidents of violence across 10 LGAs. Ballot irregularities were noted, specifically discrepancies between political party listings on ballot papers versus result sheets. Media restrictions were also reported: although the environment was conducive for journalism, access for media personnel was restricted in parts of Ikere, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti West, and Ikole LGAs.
Recommendations for INEC
The observer coalition urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold strict compliance with result management guidelines. Their primary recommendations include: prompt transparency—ensuring immediate and accurate uploading of all polling unit results to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV); equipment integrity—replacing malfunctioning BVAS units immediately where necessary to prevent disenfranchisement; and collaborative responsibility—a call to action for security agencies, political parties, and voters to play their respective roles responsibly to safeguard the integrity and peaceful conclusion of the electoral process. (NAN)
