#EkitiDecides2026: Observers raise concerns as BVAS fails to recognise some elderly voters

Election observers monitoring the Ekiti State governorship election have voiced concerns regarding the functionality of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the conduct of some party agents. Vaneza Gregory, Programme Lead at the Nigerian Women Trust Fund, highlighted that the BVAS experienced difficulties recognizing some elderly voters during the accreditation process. She urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to establish alternative verification methods for elderly voters to prevent disenfranchisement.

Gregory noted that despite these technological challenges, the turnout of female voters was encouraging, aligning with statistics that show women represent approximately 51% of registered voters in the state. Her organization monitors gender-related indicators and analyzes disaggregated data from polling units.

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There is a need to create an alternative means to capture eligible elderly voters who are not recognised by BVAS so that they will not be disenfranchised. This is something we want to call on INEC to address to ensure that vulnerable groups are not excluded from the process.

Adding to the concerns, Asabe Ndahi, a Project Manager at The Kukah Centre, alleged that some party agents were distributing alcohol near polling units, an act she believes could compromise the integrity of the electoral process. Ndahi also expressed unease over the large numbers of security personnel moving around polling areas, suggesting their presence could be intimidating to voters.

Conversely, Ajibola Adepoju, National President of the Victory Advocate of Nigeria, commended the overall conduct of the election. However, he pointed out that the INEC voter register still includes names of deceased individuals, a matter he believes needs addressing to enhance the credibility of future elections. Reports of vote buying and the distribution of incentives were also noted in parts of the state.

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We have observed security officers moving around in large numbers, and that could be intimidating to voters. Security personnel are already stationed at polling centres, so I do not think such movements are necessary.