INEC Flags 469 Polling Units as High-Risk in Ekiti Governorship Election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has raised concerns over security threats ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State. INEC warned that risk assessments across the state have uncovered flashpoints vulnerable to thuggery, kidnapping, cultism, ballot snatching, and vandalism. They've identified these flashpoints as areas that require special attention.

INEC disclosed that no fewer than 469 polling units have been identified as high-risk areas that require special security attention during the election. The electoral body said security agencies have already been mobilised to secure vulnerable locations, particularly polling units situated within a 500-metre radius of identified flashpoints. They won't leave any stone unturned in securing these areas.

Dr. Ken Ukeagu, National Commissioner in charge of the Planning, Monitoring and Strategy Committee (PMSC), said intelligence gathered during the April risk assessment exposed major security gaps and potential threats capable of undermining the election. He didn't mince words when he called for tighter border surveillance. He also called for improved coordination among members of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES). They need to work together to ensure the election's success.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ekiti State, Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, identified political violence, misinformation, transport challenges, insecurity in remote communities, and vote buying as major threats to the electoral process. He said the Commission has strengthened voter education, stakeholder engagement, logistics planning, and training of election personnel ahead of the poll. They're doing this to ensure a smooth process.

Ekiti State Police Commissioner Falade Micheal assured residents that security agencies have activated coordinated operational strategies and intelligence-sharing mechanisms before, during, and after the election. INEC reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a peaceful, transparent, and credible governorship election in the state. It's committed to making this election a success.

"We're working closely with security agencies to secure identified vulnerable polling units and ensure voter safety," INEC stated. The Commission also warned politicians and their supporters against vote buying and other electoral offences. It's noted that it has strengthened collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to track, arrest, and prosecute offenders. They won't tolerate any malpractices.

INEC said it has intensified logistical and technical preparations for the election, including configuration of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). They're also recruiting ad-hoc staff through the INECPRES portal. They're making arrangements for the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) across the 177 wards in the state. The Commission's preparations come as Nigerians await the outcome of the off-cycle gubernatorial elections in Ekiti State, scheduled for June 20, 2026. They're eager to see the results.

The election is crucial for the people of Ekiti State, who will be choosing their next governor. As the June 20 poll approaches, residents are eagerly awaiting the outcome, hoping for a peaceful and transparent process. With INEC's commitment to securing the election and the collaboration of security agencies, the stage is set for a successful exercise in democracy. Residents don't want any disruptions to the process. They're counting on INEC and the security agencies to deliver a successful election.