Tinubu urges INEC to ensure credible, peaceful Ekiti and Osun governorship polls
President Bola Tinubu urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and all political parties to ensure the upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States are peaceful and credible. He made the call during a televised broadcast on Friday to mark this year’s Democracy Day. Tinubu emphasized that the elections, expected in the coming days, must reflect the will of the people without violence or manipulation.
The statement matters because INEC’s chairman has indicated that the Ekiti governorship poll will serve as a benchmark for assessing the credibility of the 2027 general elections. Peaceful and credible polls in these Southwest states are crucial for strengthening democratic legitimacy, boosting voter confidence, and setting a precedent for future elections nationwide.
While exact election dates were not specified in the broadcast, Tinubu said the polls will hold “in the coming days.” Voters in Ekiti and Osun should stay tuned to official INEC announcements for schedules, voting guidelines, and safety measures. Political parties, civil society groups, and citizens are encouraged to support peaceful conduct, report any irregularities through official channels, and participate responsibly. The outcome of these elections may shape public perceptions of Nigeria’s electoral integrity ahead of the 2027 cycle.