Get Guardian on GoogleThe British High Commission has congratulated voters and re-elected Ekiti State Governor Abiodun Oyebanji on the conduct of Saturday’s governorship election, while raising concerns over vote trading, technical glitches and limited access for persons with disabilities.
In a statement on Monday, the commission described the poll as peaceful and orderly, commending the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders for their roles in the exercise.
“We welcome the peaceful and orderly delivery of the election by INEC, security agencies and other stakeholders,” the statement said.
Oyebanji of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) won re-election after securing victories across the state’s 16 local government areas.
The British mission said cooperation between election officials and security personnel contributed to a largely peaceful voting process, but noted areas requiring improvement ahead of future elections.
It expressed concern over reports of vote trading and interference by party agents at some polling units visited by observers.
“Vote trading erodes public confidence and undermines the democratic process,” the commission said, urging relevant authorities and political actors to take steps to tackle the practice.
The statement also highlighted accessibility challenges for voters with disabilities, noting that the physical layout of several polling units created barriers to participation.
The commission further pointed to delays linked to the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), warning that technical disruptions could weaken public trust in the electoral process and discourage voter turnout.
It urged INEC, security agencies and political parties to draw lessons from the Ekiti election as preparations begin for the Osun governorship poll and the 2027 general elections.
The United Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to supporting credible elections and democratic institutions in Nigeria.
