Ekiti poll faces vote buying, journalist safety alarms from civil society

Civil society organizations Yiaga Africa and the Independent People's Congress (IPC) have voiced significant concerns regarding the integrity of the upcoming Ekiti State governorship election. Ahead of Saturday's vote, these groups are highlighting critical issues that could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.

Vote buying has been identified as a primary threat by Yiaga Africa. The organization is calling on security agencies and anti-corruption bodies to take decisive action to prevent and prosecute instances of vote buying. The safety and security of journalists covering the election are also a major concern, with calls for adequate protection to ensure they can perform their duties without fear of intimidation or violence.

Furthermore, Yiaga Africa and IPC are emphasizing the importance of ensuring the full inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the electoral process. They are urging election officials and stakeholders to implement measures that guarantee PWDs can participate fully and equitably in the election.

The groups' warnings come as the election campaign enters its final stages, with concerns mounting over potential irregularities. Their proactive stance aims to pressure authorities to uphold electoral standards and ensure a free, fair, and credible election in Ekiti State.