The African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD) has released a comprehensive report titled "Credibility Assessment of the 2026 Ekiti Governorship Election." The report examines the preparedness of key electoral stakeholders, the effectiveness of electoral reforms, the role of technology, and the broader political, institutional, and security environment ahead of the Ekiti State Governorship Election scheduled for 20 June 2026. Drawing on the Centre LSD Electoral Credibility Index and the THRIVE Framework, the report provides an evidence-based assessment of the opportunities and risks that may influence the credibility of the electoral process.
The assessment finds that the 2026 Ekiti Governorship Election has a Moderately High Credibility Potential, supported by improvements in the legal framework, election administration, voter accreditation technology, and electoral transparency. However, the report identifies vote buying, campaign finance violations, declining voter turnout, misinformation, and inclusion challenges as significant threats to electoral integrity. The report underscores the importance of sustained commitment by all stakeholders to transparency, accountability, peaceful participation, and public trust-building to ensure that the election reflects the genuine will of the people.
As the citizens of Ekiti State head to the polls, Centre LSD calls on all eligible voters to exercise their civic responsibility peacefully, freely, and without fear. Citizens should reject vote buying, electoral violence, intimidation, and all forms of conduct that undermine democratic choice. This election presents an important opportunity for the people of Ekiti to elect leaders of their choosing who can advance good governance and deliver the dividends of democracy.
The credibility of the electoral process will depend significantly on public confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the impartial umpire, as well as the professionalism and neutrality of security agencies, the conduct of political parties and their agents, and the commitment of all sons and daughters of Ekiti State to safeguarding democratic values.
Centre LSD wishes the people of Ekiti State a peaceful, free, fair, and credible electoral process and urges all stakeholders to place the collective interest of the state above partisan considerations. The full report contains detailed findings, credibility ratings, risk assessments, and recommendations aimed at strengthening electoral integrity and democratic governance. We encourage all stakeholders to access and read the full report.
Dr. Otive Igbuzor, Ph.D.
Founding Executive Director
African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD)
