Ekiti Guber: Adhere To Electoral Laws, INEC Warns Parties, Candidates

Political parties and candidates for the forthcoming governorship election in Ekiti State have been urged to strictly adhere to electoral laws and conduct themselves responsibly before, during and after June 20, 2026 governorship election.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) which gave the advice said such which help in sustaining  the peaceful atmosphere being enjoyed in the state.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ engagement held at the INEC state office in Ado Ekiti, the state capital yesterday, the state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, admonished the political parties to embrace issue-based campaigns as electioneering campaign period kicks-off on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.

Stakeholders present at the meeting include, representatives of political parties, security agencies, the media, civil society organisations, traditional rulers among others.

The REC further urged the people to demonstrate maturity, shun hate speech, inciting statements, personality attacks and the spread of misinformation capable of undermining the electoral process.

While noting that INEC recognises the constitutional right of political parties and candidates to campaign freely, he said such rights must be exercised within the confines of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), the Electoral Act 2022, and the Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Campaigns.

Omoseyindemi who stated that violation of any  the guidelines would attract appropriate sanctions as provided by law further warned against violence, intimidation and the disruption of opponents’ lawful campaign activities, stressing that parties must strictly adhere to approved venues, routes and campaign timelines.

He enjoined political parties to properly notify security agencies and relevant authorities ahead of their rallies and other campaign activities to ensure adequate security coverage and public order.

The INEC boss in Ekiti State, however, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to peaceful campaigns that would culminate in a credible election and sustained stability in Ekiti State.

He tasked journalists covering the election to discharge their  duties professionally and  uphold fairness and ethical standards.

Confirming that INEC has published the final list of candidates for the June 20 governorship election, he, however, clarified that the exclusion of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Dr. Wole Oluyede, could be reviewed should a court ruling is delivered in his favour.