The United Kingdom has expressed concern over reported instances of vote trading and interference by political party agents during last Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State, while commending the overall peaceful conduct of the poll.
In a statement issued on Monday by the British High Commission, the UK said its observation team witnessed instances of voter inducement and interference at polling units visited during the exercise.
“Our observation team was concerned to see instances of voter 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,” the statement said.
Despite the concerns, the UK praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders for what it described as the peaceful and orderly conduct of the election.
It also congratulated Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on his re-election, noting that the electoral process was largely smooth.
“We welcome the peaceful and orderly delivery of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders,” the statement added.
The UK said its observation mission engaged key stakeholders, including INEC and police officials, ahead of the election to better understand the implementation of the Electoral Act 2026 and related guidelines.
According to the mission, there was effective collaboration between INEC officials and security agencies on election day, which contributed to largely peaceful voting across polling units visited.
However, it noted technical delays involving the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BIVAS) in some areas, which slowed down voting and could potentially affect voter confidence.
“Technical issues risk undermining voter confidence in electoral systems and can discourage turnout,” the statement warned.
The UK urged all stakeholders, including INEC, security agencies and political actors, to draw lessons from the Ekiti poll ahead of the forthcoming off-cycle governorship election in Osun State.
It also encouraged greater measures to ensure that vulnerable voters are able to participate effectively in the electoral process.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the UK reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria in strengthening democratic institutions and improving electoral credibility.
“The credibility of the next election will be vital for public confidence in democratic institutions, for Nigeria’s continued progress, and for its leadership role across Africa,” it said.
The UK further pledged continued partnership with the Nigerian government and civil society organisations to promote credible elections, strengthen democratic systems and enhance accountability in governance.