Yiaga Africa has confirmed that the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) official results for the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election aligned with its independent tally, while raising concerns over widespread vote buying and inconsistencies in voter turnout figures.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the election observer group said its Process and Results Verification for Transparency (PRVT) methodology showed that INEC’s declared results were consistent with ballots counted at polling units across the state.
Yiaga Africa commended INEC for improvements in election logistics and conduct, citing the early deployment of election materials and personnel, prompt accreditation and voting processes, and a generally peaceful atmosphere during the exercise.
Despite validating the outcome, the organisation highlighted several concerns, including rampant voter inducement, weak management of sensitive election materials, poor public communication regarding late administrative and judicial decisions, and discrepancies in turnout data.
Yiaga Africa stated, “The numbers: Yiaga’s statistical projections estimated the All Progressives Congress (APC) at 83.9–87.1 per cent of votes, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at 8.5–11.7 per cent, and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at 2.9–4.1 per cent. All fell within INEC’s announced results.
“The turnout gap: Yiaga’s estimated turnout was 34.1–38.2 per cent, while INEC announced 38.7 per cent. Yiaga noted INEC appeared to use the 2022 registered voters figure instead of the updated 2026 register.”
The group urged electoral authorities and stakeholders to address the identified shortcomings ahead of future elections.
Yiaga recommended, “INEC should clarify the turnout discrepancy and tighten quality control for sensitive materials ahead of future polls, including the 2027 general elections.
“Security agencies need to crack down harder on vote buying and voter intimidation. Political parties must better train polling agents on electoral laws and guidelines. Regulating incumbency powers and the use of state resources is critical to ensure fair competition.”
Yiaga Africa stressed, “While election administration has improved, vote buying and management lapses remain serious threats to Nigeria’s electoral integrity.”
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