UK Decries Vote Trading In Ekiti Governorship Election

The United Kingdom has expressed concern over instances of vote trading (otherwise known as vote buying) by agents of political parties in last Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State, even as it commended the people of the state for their commitment to exercising their democratic rights.

The UK disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday by the British High Commission, saying, “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 UK, however, welcomed the peaceful and orderly conduct of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and other stakeholders, and congratulated Governor Abiodun Oyebanji of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on his re-election.

“We welcome the peaceful and orderly delivery of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders. Noting that this was the first major election under the 2026 Electoral Act and associated guidelines, our team of British High Commission Observers was grateful to meet key stakeholders, including police and INEC representatives, before the election to understand how the Act was being implemented.

“On the day of the election, our observers witnessed positive collaboration between INEC officials and security agencies, which played an important role in ensuring that voting was mostly peaceful.

“Our observers also noted delays to the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BIVAS) at some polling units, which slowed down voting. Technical issues risk undermining voter confidence in electoral systems and can discourage turnout,” the statement added.

The UK also advised all stakeholders, including INEC, security agencies, and political actors, to learn from Ekiti as the next off-cycle election approaches in Osun state, even as it pledged its readiness to work with the Nigerian government to strengthen public confidence in the electoral system.

It also admonished the Nigerian government to make more provisions for vulnerable voters to exercise their rights effectively.

“As Nigeria looks towards the 2027 general election, our partnership remains as important as ever. The credibility of the next election will be vital to public confidence in democratic institutions, Nigeria’s continued progress, and its leadership role across Africa.

“The UK stands ready to continue working with the Nigerian government and civil society to champion credible electoral processes, strengthen democratic institutions and support organisations working to build a more inclusive and accountable system,” the statement added.