The United Kingdom has congratulated Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on his re-election while raising concerns about irregularities observed during the governorship poll. The British High Commission in Abuja commended the peaceful conduct of the election but highlighted issues of vote trading, technical glitches with the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), and limited accessibility for persons with disabilities.

Commendation for Peaceful Poll

In a statement issued on Monday, the British High Commission praised voters in Ekiti State for their participation and commitment to democratic rights. It also congratulated Governor Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on his victory, describing the exercise as largely peaceful and orderly.

Observers from the mission noted effective collaboration between the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies, which contributed to the calm atmosphere at polling units. The High Commission acknowledged that the conduct of officials reflected improvements in Nigeria’s electoral process.

Concerns Over Vote Buying

Despite the commendations, the UK expressed worry over the prevalence of vote trading. Its observers reported instances where party agents interfered with the voting process and engaged in inducements. The statement stressed that vote buying undermines public confidence in elections and erodes the credibility of democratic institutions.

The mission urged Nigerian stakeholders to intensify efforts to curb the practice, warning that unchecked vote trading could weaken trust in future polls.

BVAS Glitches Raise Questions

The British High Commission also flagged technical delays with the BVAS machines at some polling units. According to its observers, the glitches slowed down accreditation and voting, creating frustration among voters.

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The statement cautioned that persistent technical issues risk discouraging turnout and damaging confidence in electoral systems. It called on INEC to strengthen its technical capacity ahead of the Osun governorship election and the 2027 general elections.

Accessibility Challenges for Persons with Disabilities

Another concern raised was the accessibility of polling units for persons with disabilities. While some centres prioritised vulnerable voters, many locations remained physically inaccessible.

The mission encouraged stakeholders to adopt inclusive practices across all polling units, stressing that equal access is essential for credible elections. It urged INEC and partners to build on areas of progress to ensure that persons with disabilities can participate fully in the democratic process.

Looking ahead, the UK advised Nigeria to apply lessons from the Ekiti poll in preparing for upcoming elections. It emphasised that credibility in future contests will be vital for public confidence, Nigeria’s democratic progress, and its leadership role in Africa.

The statement reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting transparent, inclusive, and accountable electoral processes.

Governor Oyebanji’s re-election, with 319,224 votes across 16 local government areas, reflects the APC’s continued dominance in Ekiti politics. His closest rival, Wole Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party, polled 40,533 votes, while Dare Bejide of the African Democratic Congress secured 12,872 votes.

While the outcome consolidates Oyebanji’s political standing, the concerns raised by the UK highlight persistent challenges in Nigeria’s electoral system. Addressing vote buying, improving technology, and ensuring inclusivity remain critical for the credibility of future polls.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has presented the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for the state to President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The move underscores the ruling party’s preparations ahead of the next governorship election in Gombe.

Yahaya, who led a delegation of party leaders, described the candidate as a credible choice capable of consolidating APC’s gains in the state. He emphasised that the presentation was part of efforts to strengthen unity within the party and align with national leadership.

President Tinubu received the delegation and assured them of his support. He urged the candidate to focus on service delivery, stressing that governance must reflect the needs of the people. Tinubu also highlighted the importance of party discipline, noting that APC’s strength lies in its ability to remain cohesive despite political challenges.

The President’s endorsement is seen as a significant boost for the candidate, who now carries the weight of national backing into the campaign.

The presentation reflects APC’s broader strategy of consolidating its hold on key states. Gombe has been a stronghold for the party, and Yahaya’s administration has maintained influence across the region. By introducing the candidate directly to Tinubu, the party signals its intent to maintain continuity and avoid internal divisions.

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Analysts argue that the move is also symbolic, showing that APC leadership at the state level remains firmly aligned with the national agenda.

Though details of the candidate’s campaign strategy are yet to be unveiled, party insiders describe him as a grassroots politician with strong ties to local communities. His emergence followed consultations among stakeholders, aimed at ensuring broad acceptance within the party.

Observers believe his candidacy will test APC’s ability to balance continuity with fresh ideas, especially in a state where opposition parties are keen to make inroads.

The presentation to Tinubu is expected to energise APC supporters in Gombe. It also sets the tone for what could be a competitive race, as opposition parties prepare to challenge the ruling party’s dominance.

For Yahaya, the move reinforces his role as a key political figure in the North-East. His ability to rally support around the candidate will be crucial in determining APC’s performance in the election.

Governor Yahaya’s presentation of the APC governorship candidate to President Tinubu marks a significant step in the party’s preparations for the Gombe election. With Tinubu’s endorsement, the candidate enters the race with national backing and a clear mandate to sustain APC’s influence in the state.

The development highlights the party’s emphasis on unity, discipline, and continuity, while setting the stage for a contest that will shape Gombe’s political future.

A coalition of election observers has hailed the Enugu North senatorial by-election, describing it as transparent and credible. The observers noted that the exercise reflected improvements in Nigeria’s electoral process, particularly in logistics and security deployment.

The by-election, conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), drew attention due to its political significance in the South-East. Observers reported that voting materials arrived on time in most polling units, while officials adhered to procedures.

Security agencies were commended for maintaining order throughout the exercise. The observers highlighted that personnel were visible at polling stations, deterring potential disruptions. Unlike past elections marred by violence, the Enugu North poll recorded minimal incidents.

The coalition stressed that the peaceful atmosphere encouraged voter confidence. Citizens were able to cast their ballots without fear, a development seen as vital for strengthening democracy.

Although turnout was moderate, observers noted that those who participated did so willingly and without intimidation. They emphasised that voter education remains crucial, urging INEC and civil society groups to intensify awareness campaigns ahead of future elections.

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The coalition pointed out that the credibility of the process could inspire greater participation in subsequent polls, especially if citizens continue to see improvements in transparency.

INEC received praise for its handling of logistics and adherence to guidelines. Observers reported that ballot papers, result sheets, and other materials were adequately supplied. The commission’s officials were described as professional and responsive to queries from voters and party agents.

The coalition urged INEC to sustain these standards, noting that consistency across all elections would build public trust. They also called for further investment in technology to enhance efficiency and reduce human error.

Observers acknowledged the presence of party agents at polling units, which contributed to accountability. Their involvement in monitoring the process ensured that results were collated transparently.

The coalition stressed that political parties must continue to train their agents to act responsibly, as their conduct directly affects perceptions of fairness.

The Enugu North by-election is seen as a test case for Nigeria’s democratic resilience. Observers argued that the peaceful conduct demonstrates progress in electoral management. They urged stakeholders to build on the lessons learned, especially ahead of larger contests.

Civil society organisations echoed the coalition’s views, stressing that credible elections are essential for stability in the South-East and across Nigeria.

The coalition’s commendation of the Enugu North by-election underscores growing confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process. With improved logistics, visible security, and transparent procedures, the poll sets a positive precedent.

Observers concluded that sustaining these gains will require continuous collaboration between INEC, security agencies, political parties, and civil society. For citizens, the message is clear: credible elections are possible when institutions uphold their responsibilities.