The British High Commission in Abuja has congratulated voters in Ekiti State for their participation in the 20 June 2026 governorship election, commending what it described as a largely peaceful and orderly process, while also raising concerns over vote trading, accessibility challenges, and technical hitches with electoral technology.
In a post-election statement, the Commission also formally congratulated Governor Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on his re-election.
“The British High Commission in Abuja congratulates the voters in Ekiti State for their participation in the Governorship election held on 20 June 2026 and for their commitment to exercise their democratic rights. We also offer our congratulations to Governor Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on his re-election,” the statement read.
The Commission praised the conduct of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (Independent National Electoral Commission), security agencies, and other stakeholders, noting improvements in coordination under the Electoral Act 2026.
“We welcome the peaceful and orderly delivery of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders,” it said.
It further highlighted the significance of the polls as the first major electoral test under the new legal framework.
“Noting that this was the first major election under the Electoral Act 2026 and associated guidelines, our team of British High Commission observers were grateful to meet key stakeholders including police and INEC representatives before the election to understand how the Act was being implemented.”
On election day operations, the Commission said its observers witnessed improved collaboration between electoral and security officials.
“On the day of the election, our observers witnessed positive collaboration between INEC officials and security agencies which played an important role in ensuring voting was mostly peaceful.”
However, it raised concerns about accessibility for persons with disabilities, despite acknowledging efforts to prioritise vulnerable voters in some locations.
“While our team noted the prioritisation of vulnerable voters at several polling units, which is commendable, the physical location and set-up of most polling units visited were inaccessible to voters with disabilities. We encourage continued collaboration among stakeholders to build on areas of good practice to ensure implementation at all polling units ahead of the general elections in 2027.”
The High Commission also pointed to operational challenges involving the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), which it said contributed to delays in voting.
“Our observers also noted delays to the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) at some polling units, which slowed down voting. Technical issues risk undermining voter confidence in electoral systems and can discourage turnout.”
It further raised alarm over electoral malpractice and interference at polling units.
“Our observation team were concerned to see instances of vote trading and interference by party agents at polling units visited. Vote trading erodes public confidence and undermines the democratic process. We call on all actors to take urgent steps to address this corrosive practice.”
Looking ahead to upcoming polls, including the off-cycle election in Osun State, the Commission urged stakeholders to apply lessons learned from Ekiti.
“As the next off-cycle election approaches in Osun State, we urge all stakeholders including INEC, security agencies, and political actors, to take on board the lessons from Ekiti.”
Reaffirming its long-term commitment to Nigeria’s democratic process, the Commission stressed the importance of credible elections ahead of 2027.
“As Nigeria looks towards the 2027 general elections, our partnership remains as important as ever. The credibility of the next elections will be vital – for public confidence in democratic institutions, for Nigeria’s continued progress, and for its leadership role across Africa. The UK stands ready to continue working with the Nigeria Government and civil society to champion credible electoral processes, strengthen democratic institutions, and support organisations working to build a more inclusive and accountable system.”
It concluded by reiterating its congratulations to the governor and commitment to continued cooperation with Ekiti State.
“Once again, the British High Commission warmly congratulates Governor Oyebanji on his reelection and looks forward to continuing the strong partnership between the UK and Ekiti State.”
Boluwatife Enome
