INEC Intensifies Risk Management Strategy Ahead Of June 20 Ekiti State Governorship Election

INEC REC Bunmi Omoseyindemi urges stakeholder unity and the use of the ERM framework to ensure a credible and peaceful governorship election in Ekiti State.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 16, 2026, 11:25 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from LEADERSHIP

Proactive Measures for Electoral Integrity

With the Ekiti State governorship election scheduled for June 20, 2026, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has launched a comprehensive sensitization initiative to secure the credibility of the upcoming poll. During an Election Risk Management (ERM) workshop held in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Bunmi Omoseyindemi, emphasized that a transparent and inclusive process is only achievable through the unified action of all political and civic stakeholders. The commission is focusing on early detection of threats to ensure the election reflects the genuine will of the voters.

The Election Risk Management Framework

The core of INEC's current strategy is the ERM framework, a mechanism designed to identify and mitigate specific threats that could derail the electoral process. Omoseyindemi explained that this framework allows the commission to develop coordinated responses to various contingencies, ranging from logistical bottlenecks in remote communities to sophisticated misinformation campaigns on social media. By engaging security agencies and civil society early, INEC aims to create a robust shield against the disruptions that have historically marred local contests.

Identifying Key Threats: Vote-Buying and Violence

Omoseyindemi identified several critical risks that remain high priorities for the commission. Chief among these are vote-buying and voter inducement, which he described as fundamental threats to the democratic process. The REC also raised alarms regarding inter-party intolerance and the potential for political thuggery. He warned that misinformation and disinformation, particularly distributed via social platforms, have the potential to inflame regional tensions and mislead the electorate, necessitating a vigilant and verified approach to information sharing.