#EkitiDecides2026: INEC deploys election materials, personnel across state

Officials from Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have expressed strong confidence in their readiness for Saturday's Ekiti governorship election. Assurances were given to election observers and voters during pre-election assessment visits to Ikere, Ise-Orun, Oye, and Emure Local Government Areas.

INEC's Ekiti State Electoral Commissioner, Bunmi Omosehindemi, visited Ikere as part of the monitoring efforts. In Ikere, Ise-Orun, and Emure, electoral officers confirmed that both sensitive and non-sensitive election materials have been successfully deployed. They reported no significant challenges, with arrangements in place for all contingencies, including raincoats for polling staff.

Susan Ibikunle, the Electoral Officer in Ikere Local Government Area, stated that preparations are on track for the 125 polling units. Eleven buses have been allocated for staff transportation, and ad hoc staff are prepared for their duties. Similar positive reports came from officials in Emure and Ise-Orun, emphasizing the completion of material deployment and readiness for the exercise.

Across the state, election observers and stakeholders have intensified their monitoring. A noticeable increase in security presence is evident, with police officers stationed at key points and checkpoints established along major routes. These measures are intended to safeguard election materials, personnel, and voters.

Despite the heightened security, the atmosphere in the visited areas remains calm and orderly. In Oye local government area, officials were observed sorting and dispatching ballot boxes, voting materials, generators, and ad hoc staff to various registration centers and polling units, ensuring timely distribution.

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We don’t have any challenges. If it rains, we have raincoats; we have distributed them to our polling officers and assistant polling officers. We have 125 polling units. The vehicles are ready to convey our staff. We’ve prepared them for what they will do on Saturday.