Ekiti Governorship Election controversy deepens as ADC candidate Dare Bejide rejects the outcome, alleging voter intimidation and vote-buying.
The aftermath of the Ekiti governorship election has taken a dramatic turn as the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dare Bejide, formally rejected the outcome announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging that the process was marred by widespread irregularities.
Bejide’s reaction came shortly after INEC declared Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner of the poll.
The electoral body announced that Oyebanji secured an overwhelming victory with 319,224 votes, winning in all 16 local government areas and the 177 wards across the state.
However, the ADC candidate insisted that the result did not reflect the genuine wishes of Ekiti voters.
According to him, the Ekiti governorship election was characterized by voter intimidation, inducement, and other practices that undermined the credibility of the democratic process.
Addressing journalists in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, Bejide described the election as a “sham” and questioned the authenticity of the outcome.
He argued that it was difficult to accept a situation where one political party recorded victories in every ward and local government area, describing the development as unprecedented in the state’s political history.
The politician expressed concern over what he called large-scale vote-buying allegedly witnessed across the state’s 2,445 polling units.
He claimed that money and other incentives were used to influence voters, thereby compromising the integrity of the state governorship election.
According to Bejide, democracy can only thrive when citizens are allowed to make their choices freely and without fear.
He maintained that reports received from party agents and supporters suggested that many voters were subjected to pressure and intimidation before and during the exercise.
The ADC candidate further stated that the outcome of the governorship election raises important questions about electoral transparency and fairness.
While acknowledging that elections are won and lost, he stressed that every contest must be conducted in a manner that reflects the true will of the electorate.
Political observers have noted that the scale of the APC’s victory has generated conversations among stakeholders within and outside Ekiti State.
While supporters of the ruling party view the result as evidence of Governor Oyebanji’s popularity and performance in office, opposition figures have expressed reservations about the margin of victory.
Despite his dissatisfaction with the outcome, Bejide commended members of his campaign organization, party officials and supporters for their commitment throughout the election period. He thanked them for standing by the party despite the challenges encountered during the campaign and election day activities.
He also assured supporters that the party would carefully review the conduct of the poll and consult widely before deciding on the next course of action.
According to him, discussions with party leaders, legal advisers and stakeholders would determine whether further steps would be taken regarding the result.
Also read: Full list of Ekiti governorship election results as INEC declares Oyebanji winner
The controversy surrounding the Ekiti governorship election comes at a time when public confidence in electoral institutions remains a key issue in Nigeria’s democratic development.
Analysts argue that transparency, accountability and strict enforcement of electoral laws are essential for strengthening citizens’ trust in the voting process.
Meanwhile, Governor Oyebanji’s victory has further consolidated the APC’s control of Ekiti State.
Supporters of the governor have celebrated the result, describing it as a reflection of public approval for his administration’s policies and projects.
As political discussions continue across the state, attention is now focused on the next steps that may be taken by opposition parties.
For now, INEC’s declaration stands, but Bejide’s rejection of the result has added a new dimension to post-election debates, highlighting concerns about electoral conduct and the future of democratic competition in Ekiti State.
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BAO won it hands down, no controversy on it