#EkitiDecides2026: How we’ll secure Ekiti gov poll, check vote buying - Police

Nigerian police are taking a firm stance against electoral malpractice ahead of the Ekiti governorship election, assuring residents of robust security and measures to curb vote buying. The Coordinating Commissioner of Police for the election, Abayomi Shogunle, stated that security personnel are deployed to escort sensitive and non-sensitive materials from the Central Bank of Nigeria to all 16 local government areas.

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One of the steps we have taken is to enlighten voters on the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, which was recently signed into law. The Act clearly outlines actions and omissions that constitute electoral offences, including vote buying and vote selling.

Shogunle emphasized the police's readiness to clamp down on financial inducement and other electoral offenses. In line with the Inspector-General of Police's directive, security agencies are prepared to enforce the law strictly. This includes arresting offenders and ensuring they face justice.

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We have started informing citizens about these provisions, and I also urge members of the media to use their various platforms to educate the public. People need to understand that if we observe any act of vote buying or related electoral offences, we will not hesitate to enforce the law.

The police are also actively engaged in voter enlightenment campaigns, educating citizens on the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026. This legislation clearly outlines actions that constitute electoral offenses, particularly vote buying and selling. The force is collaborating with the media to amplify these awareness efforts, urging the public to understand the legal consequences of engaging in such practices.

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We commenced the training of officers yesterday, and it is continuing today. The officers will, in turn, brief the personnel deployed to various locations on what to look out for and how to handle situations involving electoral misconduct.

Specialized training programs have been organized for police officers assigned to election duties. These programs equip officers with the necessary skills to identify and respond promptly to electoral misconduct. The commissioner stressed that vigilance would be maintained throughout the process, with decisive action taken against any violations of the law.

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Our mandate is clear. We will monitor developments closely, and wherever we detect incidents of vote buying or any other electoral offence, we will do what the law requires us to do. That includes arresting offenders and ensuring that they are brought to justice.