A collection of civil society groups operating under the European Union Support for Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) has issued a stern warning to political parties and candidates in the Ekiti State governorship race. The organizations emphasized the need to protect democratic integrity by avoiding the exploitation of poverty to influence voters.
The observation hub, which includes Yiaga Africa, the International Press Centre (IPC), the Kukah Centre, TAF Africa, the Nigerian Women Trust Fund, and the Centre for Media and Society, released their preliminary assessment in Ado-Ekiti. Their statement urged candidates to prevent party agents from engaging in disorderly conduct at polling stations and to actively discourage supporters from committing acts of violence or thuggery.
Key representatives including Samson Itodo, Asabe Ndahi, Akin Akingbulu, Lanre Arogundade, Brenda Anugwom, and Jake Epelle spearheaded the call for a peaceful electoral environment. The coalition stressed that voters must be empowered to exercise their rights without financial pressure. The group continues to monitor the election process and expects to issue a comprehensive follow-up report once final results are announced.
