Ekiti Polls Marred by Vote Buying, Irregularities: Observers Report

Observers deployed by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) have raised concerns about electoral irregularities in Ekiti State's recent governorship election. The organization reported instances of vote buying and party agents offering assistance to voters across several local government areas.

These practices, including vote trading, are criminal offenses under Nigeria's Electoral Act, carrying penalties for both buyers and sellers. While voter assistance is permitted for individuals with disabilities, it must be provided by a person chosen by the voter, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is responsible for ensuring such support mechanisms are in place.

CJID condemned the reported incidents and called for a thorough investigation by INEC and security agencies. The organization stressed that such violations undermine election integrity and the democratic process. They urged authorities to take swift action to deter future violations and bolster public confidence in the electoral system.

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Vote trading and all forms of voter inducement threaten the integrity of elections and undermine the democratic process.