The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ekiti State, Dr Bunmi Omoseyindemi, has expressed confidence that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is fully prepared for the June 20 governorship election, noting that all BVAS machines are ready and election personnel have been adequately trained.
In an interview, he said the commission had completed most of the critical preparations for the election, with only sensitive materials and the actual voting exercise remaining.
He explained that arrangements had been made for persons with disabilities, including sensitisation programmes, support materials such as braille, and other accessibility tools to ensure inclusive participation.
Omoseyindemi stated that there are over one million registered voters for the election, but noted that voter turnout remains largely dependent on civic responsibility, as voting is voluntary under Nigeria’s current laws. He also highlighted that uncollected Permanent Voter Cards remain a factor influencing turnout statistics.
On concerns about voter apathy, he said it is a subject better addressed by social scientists, adding that INEC’s responsibility is to conduct free, fair and credible elections.
The REC dismissed concerns about insecurity, saying he remains optimistic and confident that the electoral process will proceed peacefully, with security agencies handling any intelligence reports.
He identified misinformation and fake news as the biggest challenge facing the commission ahead of the poll, warning that false reports can cause panic, discourage participation and create unnecessary tension among voters.
According to him, INEC has engaged media stakeholders and trained journalists on fact-checking, urging them to verify information before publication and avoid spreading unconfirmed election results or security claims.
Omoseyindemi confirmed that all Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines are fully charged and ready for deployment across the state’s 2,445 polling units, following successful mock accreditation exercises conducted earlier.
He expressed confidence that the result transmission process would be smooth and transparent, citing the commission’s reliance on technology and trained personnel.
The REC urged political actors to comply strictly with electoral laws, noting that voter mobilisation is primarily the responsibility of political parties, while INEC’s role is to ensure a level playing field.
He encouraged voters to turn out en masse and participate actively, stressing that democratic development depends on civic engagement and responsibility.
Omoseyindemi assured residents that the election would be credible, transparent, peaceful and inclusive, stating that BVAS technology has significantly reduced opportunities for electoral malpractice.
He added that lessons from the Ekiti governorship poll would help strengthen preparations for future elections, including the 2027 general elections.
