INEC Strengthens Partnership with Ekiti Traditional Rulers Ahead of 2026 Governorship Election
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed its strategic engagement with traditional rulers in Ekiti State to secure peace and stability before, during, and after the upcoming governorship election scheduled for June 20, 2026. This proactive initiative aims to leverage the influential voices of monarchs in promoting unity and democratic values across the state.
Traditional Institutions as Pillars of Peace
During a crucial stakeholders' meeting held in Ado Ekiti, Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ekiti State, emphasized the vital role of traditional institutions in fostering peace and cohesion. He highlighted that the authority and respect commanded by monarchs within their communities make them indispensable partners in ensuring a conducive electoral environment.
Omoseyindemi stated: "INEC has embarked on early and comprehensive planning to promote informed participation and guarantee that the Ekiti election is free, fair, credible, and inclusive. We are committed to conducting the election in a peaceful and secure atmosphere, in strict adherence to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 and the Electoral Act 2022 as amended."
Decentralized Voter Registration to Boost Participation
In a significant move to enhance electoral inclusivity, INEC announced that the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise will be devolved to the ward level starting from Monday, February 2, 2026. This decentralization strategy is designed to address accessibility challenges and encourage broader participation, particularly among rural and hard-to-reach populations.
The REC explained: "The CVR exercise aims to ensure that all eligible citizens who have reached the age of 18, as well as those previously unable to register, are included in the national voter register. It also facilitates the transfer of registration, correction of personal details, and replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs)."
By bringing registration services closer to the people, INEC seeks to eliminate distance barriers, reduce overcrowding at registration centers, and foster greater civic engagement.
Monarchs Pledge Unwavering Support for Peaceful Election
The Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Adejimi Adu-Alagbado, the Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, reaffirmed the commitment of monarchs to ensuring peaceful elections. He assured that traditional rulers would continue to play their pivotal roles in maintaining stability and harmony.
Oba Adu-Alagbado declared: "We have maintained peace in Ekiti thus far, and we are determined to sustain this legacy. All royal fathers in the state are united in this endeavor. The 2026 election will be as peaceful as previous ones, and we pledge our full support to INEC and all stakeholders."
He further emphasized that monarchs would engage with their communities through collective dialogues and group discussions to reinforce messages of peace and non-violence.
Political Landscape and Campaign Guidelines
INEC had earlier published the final list of candidates for the Ekiti governorship election on January 19, 2026, featuring 12 political parties. Notably, the list excluded candidates from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), with no major changes from the provisional list released in December 2025, except for the Young Peoples Party (YPP).
In accordance with the Electoral Act 2022, public campaigns officially commenced on January 21, 2026. Omoseyindemi confirmed that INEC has conducted meetings with political parties to outline participation guidelines and codes of conduct during campaigns. He stressed that the success of the election is a shared responsibility, urging all stakeholders to discourage violence, comply with electoral laws, and promote unity.
"As fathers of the land, your guardianship will be instrumental in ensuring that Ekiti remains a model of peaceful and credible elections in Nigeria," he added, underscoring the collaborative effort required for a successful electoral process.
This comprehensive approach by INEC, combining traditional authority with decentralized voter registration, sets a promising precedent for the 2026 Ekiti governorship election, aiming to uphold democratic integrity and community harmony.
