APC’s Oyebanji Declared Winner Of Ekiti Governorship Election
..election characterized by heavy vote buying
Olusola Bello
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress winner of the 2022 Ekiti governorship election.
Oyebanji polled a total of 187,057 votes to defeat his two closest challengers – Segun Oni of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Bisi Kolawole of the People’s Democratic Party.
The SDP emerged in second place with total votes of 82,211 while the PDP was third with 67,457 votes.
Mr Oyebanji is now set to replace incumbent Kayode Fayemi in October.
“No society can grow greater than the vision and dream of its leader,” Oyebanji said during last week’s Ekiti governorship debate, one of his final public appeals to voters.
“I am offering myself to lead our people into a prosperous society.
“I am bringing to the table 11 years of experience in the public service at the state level, two years at the federal level.
“I am going to aggregate the best brains of Ekiti all over the world to help me achieve my dreams.”
The election, which was marred with reports of vote buying and violence, was largely peaceful, independent observers said.
Vote buying
According to INEC, 988,923 registered voters were expected to participate in the exercise.
However, only 363,438 voters were accredited.
The polls officially opened at around 8:30am (WAT) on Saturday and was expected to close at 2:30 pm (WAT).
Some voters who stormed polling units to exercise their franchise vowed not to sell their votes.
We are not illiterates,” one electorate said.
But reports of massive vote buying soon surfaced, prompting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to embark on a raid and make some arrests.
Some voters were also sighted scrambling for money during the election.
“I’ve received reports of vote buying in Ado and Oye,” Oni, the SDP candidate, said.
The Campaign for Equal Voting Access for Persons with Disabilities (EVAPWD), a program of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), said its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling in the ongoing election in Ekiti State.
The organization in a preliminary statement before the conclusion of the election said it participated actively in the observation of the June 18, 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The group further stated that while partaking of the polls its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling, particularly in “Polling Unit (PU) 001, Ward 10, Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA, PU 002, Ward 10, Odo-Oye / Ayedun 1, Gbonyi LGA, and PU 039, Ward 11, Ado-Ekiti LGA”.
In the communique signed by David O. Anyaele, Chairman, Campaign for Equal Voting Access, EVAPWD said it is impressed to observe that marginalized populations – the aged, nursing mothers and pregnant women and persons with disabilities were offered priority voting in most of the polling units observed.
The group commended Polling Officials for their efforts in that regard.
INEC was also praised for the conduct of the election, even as it was observed that voters turned out in their large numbers at their polling units as early as 8am.
EVAPWD observers also, however, noticed that the promised Braille Ballot Paper by INEC for easy access for the Blind voters were scarcely available as it was only observed at PU 003, Ward 10, Afao/Kajola and PU 001, Ward 11, Odese in Ikere Local Government Area.
They did not see any magnifying glasses at the Polling Units observed, and when Adhoc Staff were asked about this material, they told EVAPWD Observers that it is not available.
Furthermore, EVAPWD observed that Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials such as Election Day instructions and guidelines to assist the deaf or persons with hearing impairment understanding of voting process were not available in all the polling units visited.
The group’s report shows that large numbers of the polling units were not accessible to physically challenged persons. These polling units were sited in difficult places such as buildings without ramps/handrail, across gutter, staircase etc.
The worse they however, observed was locating of a Polling Unit in a basement at PU 004, Ward 002, near Odo-Ado market, Ado-Ekiti LGA with no provisional elevators nor ramp to assist physically challenged voters.
EVAPWD asserted that its reports were from field observers deployed across the three Senatorial Zones of the State, adding that these observers were trained to observe the election with focus on equal voting access for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
According to the body, the key objective of the observation exercise was to observe provisions made by INEC for persons with disabilities’ participation in the election and raise awareness on equal voting rights for citizens with disabilities. It was an opportunity to observe the extent of INEC compliance to the new Electoral Act 2022.
EVAPWD was of the opinion that with their observations, the group is pleased that INEC granted PWDs priority voting during the 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election.
Nevertheless, the group was disappointed that there was no provision of assistive devices (Braille Ballots, Magnifying Glasses and location of Polling Units in accessible environments).
“By this singular act, INEC has displayed minimal commitment to the implementation of the Electoral Act, INEC Framework on Access and Participation of Persons with Disabilities in the Electoral Process and the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018,” EVAPWD declared.
The group urged INEC to address the issues as observed by EVAPWD observers, especially as the nation moves towards Osun State Governorship election next month and other elections to come in 2023.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, has said that reports of voting-buying in the ongoing governorship election in Ekiti State is not solely synonymous to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Keyamo’s statement comes on the heels of reports suggesting that the APC was involved in mass vote buying and selling in the ongoing Ekiti polls.
In his statement on Twitter, the minister said the claims are only subtle messages passed across by opposition parties, all in a bid to see that the ruling party loses the election.
“Incidences of vote-buying can’t be synonymous only with the ruling party, but the subtle message the other parties try to pass to the gullible is that only the ruling party engages in illegalities & that the only way an election can be deemed credible is if the ruling party loses,” Keyamo lamented.
The election in Ekiti State has been adjudged peaceful by many, however, there have been pockets of violence and several reports of “money for votes” practices.
Agents of the ruling APC were reportedly arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), for alleged vote-buying.
Parading some of the suspects at the Oke Ori Omi Area Division of the Nigerian Police Force, the suspects were said to have been caught with monies allegedly used to induce voters, an act the EFCC officials say were carried out surreptitiously.
The EFCC thereafter proceeded to burst another residence where some persons were caught with a book containing details of voters of certain voting area.
olusola Bello <olusolabellobj@yahoo.com>
To:Olusola Bello
Sat, Jun 18 at 10:21 PM
APC’s Oyebanji Declared Winner Of Ekiti Governorship Election
..election characterized by heavy vote buying
Olusola Bello
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress winner of the 2022 Ekiti governorship election.
Oyebanji polled a total of 187,057 votes to defeat his two closest challengers – Segun Oni of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Bisi Kolawole of the People’s Democratic Party.
The SDP emerged in second place with total votes of 82,211 while the PDP was third with 67,457 votes.
Mr Oyebanji is now set to replace incumbent Kayode Fayemi in October.
“No society can grow greater than the vision and dream of its leader,” Oyebanji said during last week’s Ekiti governorship debate, one of his final public appeals to voters.
“I am offering myself to lead our people into a prosperous society.
“I am bringing to the table 11 years of experience in the public service at the state level, two years at the federal level.
“I am going to aggregate the best brains of Ekiti all over the world to help me achieve my dreams.”
The election, which was marred with reports of vote buying and violence, was largely peaceful, independent observers said.
Vote buying
According to INEC, 988,923 registered voters were expected to participate in the exercise.
However, only 363,438 voters were accredited.
The polls officially opened at around 8:30am (WAT) on Saturday and was expected to close at 2:30 pm (WAT).
Some voters who stormed polling units to exercise their franchise vowed not to sell their votes.
We are not illiterates,” one electorate said.
But reports of massive vote buying soon surfaced, prompting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to embark on a raid and make some arrests.
Some voters were also sighted scrambling for money during the election.
“I’ve received reports of vote buying in Ado and Oye,” Oni, the SDP candidate, said.
However, the Campaign for Equal Voting Access for Persons with Disabilities (EVAPWD), a program of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), said its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling in the ongoing election in Ekiti State.
The organization in a preliminary statement before the conclusion of the election said it participated actively in the observation of the June 18, 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The group further stated that while partaking of the polls its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling, particularly in “Polling Unit (PU) 001, Ward 10, Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA, PU 002, Ward 10, Odo-Oye / Ayedun 1, Gbonyi LGA, and PU 039, Ward 11, Ado-Ekiti LGA”.
In the communique signed by David O. Anyaele, Chairman, Campaign for Equal Voting Access, EVAPWD said it is impressed to observe that marginalized populations – the aged, nursing mothers and pregnant women and persons with disabilities were offered priority voting in most of the polling units observed.
The group commended Polling Officials for their efforts in that regard.
INEC was also praised for the conduct of the election, even as it was observed that voters turned out in their large numbers at their polling units as early as 8am.
EVAPWD observers also, however, noticed that the promised Braille Ballot Paper by INEC for easy access for the Blind voters were scarcely available as it was only observed at PU 003, Ward 10, Afao/Kajola and PU 001, Ward 11, Odese in Ikere Local Government Area.
They did not see any magnifying glasses at the Polling Units observed, and when Adhoc Staff were asked about this material, they told EVAPWD Observers that it is not available.
Furthermore, EVAPWD observed that Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials such as Election Day instructions and guidelines to assist the deaf or persons with hearing impairment understanding of voting process were not available in all the polling units visited.
The group’s report shows that large numbers of the polling units were not accessible to physically challenged persons. These polling units were sited in difficult places such as buildings without ramps/handrail, across gutter, staircase etc.
The worse they however, observed was locating of a Polling Unit in a basement at PU 004, Ward 002, near Odo-Ado market, Ado-Ekiti LGA with no provisional elevators nor ramp to assist physically challenged voters.
EVAPWD asserted that its reports were from field observers deployed across the three Senatorial Zones of the State, adding that these observers were trained to observe the election with focus on equal voting access for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
According to the body, the key objective of the observation exercise was to observe provisions made by INEC for persons with disabilities’ participation in the election and raise awareness on equal voting rights for citizens with disabilities. It was an opportunity to observe the extent of INEC compliance to the new Electoral Act 2022.
EVAPWD was of the opinion that with their observations, the group is pleased that INEC granted PWDs priority voting during the 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election.
Nevertheless, the group was disappointed that there was no provision of assistive devices (Braille Ballots, Magnifying Glasses and location of Polling Units in accessible environments).
“By this singular act, INEC has displayed minimal commitment to the implementation of the Electoral Act, INEC Framework on Access and Participation of Persons with Disabilities in the Electoral Process and the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018,” EVAPWD declared.
The group urged INEC to address the issues as observed by EVAPWD observers, especially as the nation moves towards Osun State Governorship election next month and other elections to come in 2023.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, has said that reports of voting-buying in the ongoing governorship election in Ekiti State is not solely synonymous to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Keyamo’s statement comes on the heels of reports suggesting that the APC was involved in mass vote-buying and selling in the ongoing Ekiti polls.
In his statement on Twitter, the minister said the claims are only subtle messages passed across by opposition parties, all in a bid to see that the ruling party loses the election.
“Incidences of vote-buying can’t be synonymous only with the ruling party, but the subtle message the other parties try to pass to the gullible is that only the ruling party engages in illegalities & that the only way an election can be deemed credible is if the ruling party loses,” Keyamo lamented.
The election in Ekiti State has been adjudged peaceful by many, however, there have been pockets of violence and several reports of “money for votes” practices.
Agents of the ruling APC were reportedly arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), for alleged vote-buying.
Parading some of the suspects at the Oke Ori Omi Area Division of the Nigerian Police Force, the suspects were said to have been caught with monies allegedly used to induce voters, an act the EFCC officials say were carried out surreptitiously.
The EFCC thereafter proceeded to burst another residence where some persons were caught with a book containing details of voters of certain voting area.
APC’s Oyebanji Declared Winner Of Ekiti Governorship Election
..election characterized by heavy vote buying
Olusola Bello
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress winner of the 2022 Ekiti governorship election.
Oyebanji polled a total of 187,057 votes to defeat his two closest challengers – Segun Oni of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Bisi Kolawole of the People’s Democratic Party.
The SDP emerged in second place with total votes of 82,211 while the PDP was third with 67,457 votes.
Mr Oyebanji is now set to replace incumbent Kayode Fayemi in October.
“No society can grow greater than the vision and dream of its leader,” Oyebanji said during last week’s Ekiti governorship debate, one of his final public appeals to voters.
“I am offering myself to lead our people into a prosperous society.
“I am bringing to the table 11 years of experience in the public service at the state level, two years at the federal level.
“I am going to aggregate the best brains of Ekiti all over the world to help me achieve my dreams.”
The election, which was marred with reports of vote buying and violence, was largely peaceful, independent observers said.
Vote buying
According to INEC, 988,923 registered voters were expected to participate in the exercise.
However, only 363,438 voters were accredited.
The polls officially opened at around 8:30am (WAT) on Saturday and was expected to close at 2:30 pm (WAT).
Some voters who stormed polling units to exercise their franchise vowed not to sell their votes.
We are not illiterates,” one electorate said.
But reports of massive vote buying soon surfaced, prompting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to embark on a raid and make some arrests.
Some voters were also sighted scrambling for money during the election.
“I’ve received reports of vote buying in Ado and Oye,” Oni, the SDP candidate, said.
The Campaign for Equal Voting Access for Persons with Disabilities (EVAPWD), a program of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), said its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling in the ongoing election in Ekiti State.
The organization in a preliminary statement before the conclusion of the election said it participated actively in the observation of the June 18, 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The group further stated that while partaking of the polls its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling, particularly in “Polling Unit (PU) 001, Ward 10, Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA, PU 002, Ward 10, Odo-Oye / Ayedun 1, Gbonyi LGA, and PU 039, Ward 11, Ado-Ekiti LGA”.
In the communique signed by David O. Anyaele, Chairman, Campaign for Equal Voting Access, EVAPWD said it is impressed to observe that marginalized populations – the aged, nursing mothers and pregnant women and persons with disabilities were offered priority voting in most of the polling units observed.
The group commended Polling Officials for their efforts in that regard.
INEC was also praised for the conduct of the election, even as it was observed that voters turned out in their large numbers at their polling units as early as 8am.
EVAPWD observers also, however, noticed that the promised Braille Ballot Paper by INEC for easy access for the Blind voters were scarcely available as it was only observed at PU 003, Ward 10, Afao/Kajola and PU 001, Ward 11, Odese in Ikere Local Government Area.
They did not see any magnifying glasses at the Polling Units observed, and when Adhoc Staff were asked about this material, they told EVAPWD Observers that it is not available.
Furthermore, EVAPWD observed that Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials such as Election Day instructions and guidelines to assist the deaf or persons with hearing impairment understanding of voting process were not available in all the polling units visited.
The group’s report shows that large numbers of the polling units were not accessible to physically challenged persons. These polling units were sited in difficult places such as buildings without ramps/handrail, across gutter, staircase etc.
The worse they however, observed was locating of a Polling Unit in a basement at PU 004, Ward 002, near Odo-Ado market, Ado-Ekiti LGA with no provisional elevators nor ramp to assist physically challenged voters.
EVAPWD asserted that its reports were from field observers deployed across the three Senatorial Zones of the State, adding that these observers were trained to observe the election with focus on equal voting access for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
According to the body, the key objective of the observation exercise was to observe provisions made by INEC for persons with disabilities’ participation in the election and raise awareness on equal voting rights for citizens with disabilities. It was an opportunity to observe the extent of INEC compliance to the new Electoral Act 2022.
EVAPWD was of the opinion that with their observations, the group is pleased that INEC granted PWDs priority voting during the 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election.
Nevertheless, the group was disappointed that there was no provision of assistive devices (Braille Ballots, Magnifying Glasses and location of Polling Units in accessible environments).
“By this singular act, INEC has displayed minimal commitment to the implementation of the Electoral Act, INEC Framework on Access and Participation of Persons with Disabilities in the Electoral Process and the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018,” EVAPWD declared.
The group urged INEC to address the issues as observed by EVAPWD observers, especially as the nation moves towards Osun State Governorship election next month and other elections to come in 2023.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, has said that reports of voting-buying in the ongoing governorship election in Ekiti State is not solely synonymous to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Keyamo’s statement comes on the heels of reports suggesting that the APC was involved in mass vote buying and selling in the ongoing Ekiti polls.
In his statement on Twitter, the minister said the claims are only subtle messages passed across by opposition parties, all in a bid to see that the ruling party loses the election.
“Incidences of vote-buying can’t be synonymous only with the ruling party, but the subtle message the other parties try to pass to the gullible is that only the ruling party engages in illegalities & that the only way an election can be deemed credible is if the ruling party loses,” Keyamo lamented.
The election in Ekiti State has been adjudged peaceful by many, however, there have been pockets of violence and several reports of “money for votes” practices.
Agents of the ruling APC were reportedly arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), for alleged vote-buying.
Parading some of the suspects at the Oke Ori Omi Area Division of the Nigerian Police Force, the suspects were said to have been caught with monies allegedly used to induce voters, an act the EFCC officials say were carried out surreptitiously.
The EFCC thereafter proceeded to burst another residence where some persons were caught with a book containing details of voters of certain voting area.
olusola Bello <olusolabellobj@yahoo.com>
To:Olusola Bello
Sat, Jun 18 at 10:21 PM
APC’s Oyebanji Declared Winner Of Ekiti Governorship Election
..election characterized by heavy vote buying
Olusola Bello
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress winner of the 2022 Ekiti governorship election.
Oyebanji polled a total of 187,057 votes to defeat his two closest challengers – Segun Oni of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Bisi Kolawole of the People’s Democratic Party.
The SDP emerged in second place with total votes of 82,211 while the PDP was third with 67,457 votes.
Mr Oyebanji is now set to replace incumbent Kayode Fayemi in October.
“No society can grow greater than the vision and dream of its leader,” Oyebanji said during last week’s Ekiti governorship debate, one of his final public appeals to voters.
“I am offering myself to lead our people into a prosperous society.
“I am bringing to the table 11 years of experience in the public service at the state level, two years at the federal level.
“I am going to aggregate the best brains of Ekiti all over the world to help me achieve my dreams.”
The election, which was marred with reports of vote buying and violence, was largely peaceful, independent observers said.
Vote buying
According to INEC, 988,923 registered voters were expected to participate in the exercise.
However, only 363,438 voters were accredited.
The polls officially opened at around 8:30am (WAT) on Saturday and was expected to close at 2:30 pm (WAT).
Some voters who stormed polling units to exercise their franchise vowed not to sell their votes.
We are not illiterates,” one electorate said.
But reports of massive vote buying soon surfaced, prompting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to embark on a raid and make some arrests.
Some voters were also sighted scrambling for money during the election.
“I’ve received reports of vote buying in Ado and Oye,” Oni, the SDP candidate, said.
However, the Campaign for Equal Voting Access for Persons with Disabilities (EVAPWD), a program of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), said its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling in the ongoing election in Ekiti State.
The organization in a preliminary statement before the conclusion of the election said it participated actively in the observation of the June 18, 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The group further stated that while partaking of the polls its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling, particularly in “Polling Unit (PU) 001, Ward 10, Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA, PU 002, Ward 10, Odo-Oye / Ayedun 1, Gbonyi LGA, and PU 039, Ward 11, Ado-Ekiti LGA”.
In the communique signed by David O. Anyaele, Chairman, Campaign for Equal Voting Access, EVAPWD said it is impressed to observe that marginalized populations – the aged, nursing mothers and pregnant women and persons with disabilities were offered priority voting in most of the polling units observed.
The group commended Polling Officials for their efforts in that regard.
INEC was also praised for the conduct of the election, even as it was observed that voters turned out in their large numbers at their polling units as early as 8am.
EVAPWD observers also, however, noticed that the promised Braille Ballot Paper by INEC for easy access for the Blind voters were scarcely available as it was only observed at PU 003, Ward 10, Afao/Kajola and PU 001, Ward 11, Odese in Ikere Local Government Area.
They did not see any magnifying glasses at the Polling Units observed, and when Adhoc Staff were asked about this material, they told EVAPWD Observers that it is not available.
Furthermore, EVAPWD observed that Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials such as Election Day instructions and guidelines to assist the deaf or persons with hearing impairment understanding of voting process were not available in all the polling units visited.
The group’s report shows that large numbers of the polling units were not accessible to physically challenged persons. These polling units were sited in difficult places such as buildings without ramps/handrail, across gutter, staircase etc.
The worse they however, observed was locating of a Polling Unit in a basement at PU 004, Ward 002, near Odo-Ado market, Ado-Ekiti LGA with no provisional elevators nor ramp to assist physically challenged voters.
EVAPWD asserted that its reports were from field observers deployed across the three Senatorial Zones of the State, adding that these observers were trained to observe the election with focus on equal voting access for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
According to the body, the key objective of the observation exercise was to observe provisions made by INEC for persons with disabilities’ participation in the election and raise awareness on equal voting rights for citizens with disabilities. It was an opportunity to observe the extent of INEC compliance to the new Electoral Act 2022.
EVAPWD was of the opinion that with their observations, the group is pleased that INEC granted PWDs priority voting during the 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election.
Nevertheless, the group was disappointed that there was no provision of assistive devices (Braille Ballots, Magnifying Glasses and location of Polling Units in accessible environments).
“By this singular act, INEC has displayed minimal commitment to the implementation of the Electoral Act, INEC Framework on Access and Participation of Persons with Disabilities in the Electoral Process and the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018,” EVAPWD declared.
The group urged INEC to address the issues as observed by EVAPWD observers, especially as the nation moves towards Osun State Governorship election next month and other elections to come in 2023.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, has said that reports of voting-buying in the ongoing governorship election in Ekiti State is not solely synonymous to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Keyamo’s statement comes on the heels of reports suggesting that the APC was involved in mass vote-buying and selling in the ongoing Ekiti polls.
In his statement on Twitter, the minister said the claims are only subtle messages passed across by opposition parties, all in a bid to see that the ruling party loses the election.
“Incidences of vote-buying can’t be synonymous only with the ruling party, but the subtle message the other parties try to pass to the gullible is that only the ruling party engages in illegalities & that the only way an election can be deemed credible is if the ruling party loses,” Keyamo lamented.
The election in Ekiti State has been adjudged peaceful by many, however, there have been pockets of violence and several reports of “money for votes” practices.
Agents of the ruling APC were reportedly arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), for alleged vote-buying.
Parading some of the suspects at the Oke Ori Omi Area Division of the Nigerian Police Force, the suspects were said to have been caught with monies allegedly used to induce voters, an act the EFCC officials say were carried out surreptitiously.
The EFCC thereafter proceeded to burst another residence where some persons were caught with a book containing details of voters of certain voting area.
APC’s Oyebanji Declared Winner Of Ekiti Governorship Election
..election characterized by heavy vote buying
Olusola Bello
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress winner of the 2022 Ekiti governorship election.
Oyebanji polled a total of 187,057 votes to defeat his two closest challengers – Segun Oni of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Bisi Kolawole of the People’s Democratic Party.
The SDP emerged in second place with total votes of 82,211 while the PDP was third with 67,457 votes.
Mr Oyebanji is now set to replace incumbent Kayode Fayemi in October.
“No society can grow greater than the vision and dream of its leader,” Oyebanji said during last week’s Ekiti governorship debate, one of his final public appeals to voters.
“I am offering myself to lead our people into a prosperous society.
“I am bringing to the table 11 years of experience in the public service at the state level, two years at the federal level.
“I am going to aggregate the best brains of Ekiti all over the world to help me achieve my dreams.”
The election, which was marred with reports of vote buying and violence, was largely peaceful, independent observers said.
Vote buying
According to INEC, 988,923 registered voters were expected to participate in the exercise.
However, only 363,438 voters were accredited.
The polls officially opened at around 8:30am (WAT) on Saturday and was expected to close at 2:30 pm (WAT).
Some voters who stormed polling units to exercise their franchise vowed not to sell their votes.
We are not illiterates,” one electorate said.
But reports of massive vote buying soon surfaced, prompting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to embark on a raid and make some arrests.
Some voters were also sighted scrambling for money during the election.
“I’ve received reports of vote buying in Ado and Oye,” Oni, the SDP candidate, said.
The Campaign for Equal Voting Access for Persons with Disabilities (EVAPWD), a program of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), said its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling in the ongoing election in Ekiti State.
The organization in a preliminary statement before the conclusion of the election said it participated actively in the observation of the June 18, 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The group further stated that while partaking of the polls its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling, particularly in “Polling Unit (PU) 001, Ward 10, Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA, PU 002, Ward 10, Odo-Oye / Ayedun 1, Gbonyi LGA, and PU 039, Ward 11, Ado-Ekiti LGA”.
In the communique signed by David O. Anyaele, Chairman, Campaign for Equal Voting Access, EVAPWD said it is impressed to observe that marginalized populations – the aged, nursing mothers and pregnant women and persons with disabilities were offered priority voting in most of the polling units observed.
The group commended Polling Officials for their efforts in that regard.
INEC was also praised for the conduct of the election, even as it was observed that voters turned out in their large numbers at their polling units as early as 8am.
EVAPWD observers also, however, noticed that the promised Braille Ballot Paper by INEC for easy access for the Blind voters were scarcely available as it was only observed at PU 003, Ward 10, Afao/Kajola and PU 001, Ward 11, Odese in Ikere Local Government Area.
They did not see any magnifying glasses at the Polling Units observed, and when Adhoc Staff were asked about this material, they told EVAPWD Observers that it is not available.
Furthermore, EVAPWD observed that Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials such as Election Day instructions and guidelines to assist the deaf or persons with hearing impairment understanding of voting process were not available in all the polling units visited.
The group’s report shows that large numbers of the polling units were not accessible to physically challenged persons. These polling units were sited in difficult places such as buildings without ramps/handrail, across gutter, staircase etc.
The worse they however, observed was locating of a Polling Unit in a basement at PU 004, Ward 002, near Odo-Ado market, Ado-Ekiti LGA with no provisional elevators nor ramp to assist physically challenged voters.
EVAPWD asserted that its reports were from field observers deployed across the three Senatorial Zones of the State, adding that these observers were trained to observe the election with focus on equal voting access for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
According to the body, the key objective of the observation exercise was to observe provisions made by INEC for persons with disabilities’ participation in the election and raise awareness on equal voting rights for citizens with disabilities. It was an opportunity to observe the extent of INEC compliance to the new Electoral Act 2022.
EVAPWD was of the opinion that with their observations, the group is pleased that INEC granted PWDs priority voting during the 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election.
Nevertheless, the group was disappointed that there was no provision of assistive devices (Braille Ballots, Magnifying Glasses and location of Polling Units in accessible environments).
“By this singular act, INEC has displayed minimal commitment to the implementation of the Electoral Act, INEC Framework on Access and Participation of Persons with Disabilities in the Electoral Process and the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018,” EVAPWD declared.
The group urged INEC to address the issues as observed by EVAPWD observers, especially as the nation moves towards Osun State Governorship election next month and other elections to come in 2023.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, has said that reports of voting-buying in the ongoing governorship election in Ekiti State is not solely synonymous to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Keyamo’s statement comes on the heels of reports suggesting that the APC was involved in mass vote buying and selling in the ongoing Ekiti polls.
In his statement on Twitter, the minister said the claims are only subtle messages passed across by opposition parties, all in a bid to see that the ruling party loses the election.
“Incidences of vote-buying can’t be synonymous only with the ruling party, but the subtle message the other parties try to pass to the gullible is that only the ruling party engages in illegalities & that the only way an election can be deemed credible is if the ruling party loses,” Keyamo lamented.
The election in Ekiti State has been adjudged peaceful by many, however, there have been pockets of violence and several reports of “money for votes” practices.
Agents of the ruling APC were reportedly arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), for alleged vote-buying.
Parading some of the suspects at the Oke Ori Omi Area Division of the Nigerian Police Force, the suspects were said to have been caught with monies allegedly used to induce voters, an act the EFCC officials say were carried out surreptitiously.
The EFCC thereafter proceeded to burst another residence where some persons were caught with a book containing details of voters of certain voting area.
APC’s Candidate Declared Winner Of Ekiti Governorship Election
..election characterized by heavy vote-buying
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress winner of the 2022 Ekiti governorship election.
Oyebanji polled a total of 187,057 votes to defeat his two closest challengers – Segun Oni of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Bisi Kolawole of the People’s Democratic Party.
The SDP emerged in second place with total votes of 82,211 while the PDP was third with 67,457 votes.
Mr Oyebanji is now set to replace incumbent Kayode Fayemi in October.
“No society can grow greater than the vision and dream of its leader,” Oyebanji said during last week’s Ekiti governorship debate, one of his final public appeals to voters.
“I am offering myself to lead our people into a prosperous society.
“I am bringing to the table 11 years of experience in the public service at the state level, two years at the federal level.
“I am going to aggregate the best brains of Ekiti all over the world to help me achieve my dreams.”
The election, which was marred with reports of vote buying and violence, was largely peaceful, independent observers said.
Vote buying
According to INEC, 988,923 registered voters were expected to participate in the exercise.
However, only 363,438 voters were accredited.
The polls officially opened at around 8:30am (WAT) on Saturday and was expected to close at 2:30 pm (WAT).
Some voters who stormed polling units to exercise their franchise vowed not to sell their votes.
We are not illiterates,” one electorate said.
But reports of massive vote buying soon surfaced, prompting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to embark on a raid and make some arrests.
Some voters were also sighted scrambling for money during the election.
“I’ve received reports of vote buying in Ado and Oye,” Oni, the SDP candidate, said.
However, the Campaign for Equal Voting Access for Persons with Disabilities (EVAPWD), a program of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), said its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling in the ongoing election in Ekiti State.
The organization in a preliminary statement before the conclusion of the election said it participated actively in the observation of the June 18, 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The group further stated that while partaking of the polls its observers witnessed massive vote buying and selling, particularly in “Polling Unit (PU) 001, Ward 10, Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA, PU 002, Ward 10, Odo-Oye / Ayedun 1, Gbonyi LGA, and PU 039, Ward 11, Ado-Ekiti LGA”.
In the communique signed by David O. Anyaele, Chairman, Campaign for Equal Voting Access, EVAPWD said it is impressed to observe that marginalized populations – the aged, nursing mothers and pregnant women and persons with disabilities were offered priority voting in most of the polling units observed.
The group commended Polling Officials for their efforts in that regard.
INEC was also praised for the conduct of the election, even as it was observed that voters turned out in their large numbers at their polling units as early as 8am.
EVAPWD observers also, however, noticed that the promised Braille Ballot Paper by INEC for easy access for the Blind voters were scarcely available as it was only observed at PU 003, Ward 10, Afao/Kajola and PU 001, Ward 11, Odese in Ikere Local Government Area.
They did not see any magnifying glasses at the Polling Units observed, and when Adhoc Staff were asked about this material, they told EVAPWD Observers that it is not available.
Furthermore, EVAPWD observed that Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials such as Election Day instructions and guidelines to assist the deaf or persons with hearing impairment understanding of voting process were not available in all the polling units visited.
The group’s report shows that large numbers of the polling units were not accessible to physically challenged persons. These polling units were sited in difficult places such as buildings without ramps/handrail, across gutter, staircase etc.
The worse they however, observed was locating of a Polling Unit in a basement at PU 004, Ward 002, near Odo-Ado market, Ado-Ekiti LGA with no provisional elevators nor ramp to assist physically challenged voters.
EVAPWD asserted that its reports were from field observers deployed across the three Senatorial Zones of the State, adding that these observers were trained to observe the election with focus on equal voting access for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
According to the body, the key objective of the observation exercise was to observe provisions made by INEC for persons with disabilities’ participation in the election and raise awareness on equal voting rights for citizens with disabilities. It was an opportunity to observe the extent of INEC compliance to the new Electoral Act 2022.
EVAPWD was of the opinion that with their observations, the group is pleased that INEC granted PWDs priority voting during the 2022 Ekiti State Governorship Election.
Nevertheless, the group was disappointed that there was no provision of assistive devices (Braille Ballots, Magnifying Glasses and location of Polling Units in accessible environments).
“By this singular act, INEC has displayed minimal commitment to the implementation of the Electoral Act, INEC Framework on Access and Participation of Persons with Disabilities in the Electoral Process and the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018,” EVAPWD declared.
The group urged INEC to address the issues as observed by EVAPWD observers, especially as the nation moves towards Osun State Governorship election next month and other elections to come in 2023.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, has said that reports of voting-buying in the ongoing governorship election in Ekiti State is not solely synonymous to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Keyamo’s statement comes on the heels of reports suggesting that the APC was involved in mass vote-buying and selling in the ongoing Ekiti polls.
In his statement on Twitter, the minister said the claims are only subtle messages passed across by opposition parties, all in a bid to see that the ruling party loses the election.
“Incidences of vote-buying can’t be synonymous only with the ruling party, but the subtle message the other parties try to pass to the gullible is that only the ruling party engages in illegalities & that the only way an election can be deemed credible is if the ruling party loses,” Keyamo lamented.
The election in Ekiti State has been adjudged peaceful by many, however, there have been pockets of violence and several reports of “money for votes” practices.
Agents of the ruling APC were reportedly arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), for alleged vote-buying.
Parading some of the suspects at the Oke Ori Omi Area Division of the Nigerian Police Force, the suspects were said to have been caught with monies allegedly used to induce voters, an act the EFCC officials say were carried out surreptitiously.
The EFCC thereafter proceeded to burst into another residence where some persons were caught with a book containing details of voters of certain voting area.
olusola Bello