Voting is underway across Ekiti State as residents head to the polls to elect the state's next governor in an off-cycle election seen as a key political test ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general elections.
According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), 1,028,929 of the state's 1,059,360 registered voters collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and are eligible to vote at 2,445 polling units across the 16 local government areas.
Incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is seeking a second term alongside his running mate, Monisade Afuye. His main challengers are Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Wole Oluyede and African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate Dare Bejide.
Early reports from several polling units indicated steady voter turnout, with Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye casting her ballot in Ikere-Ekiti and commending the peaceful conduct of the exercise. Former Governor Ayodele Fayose also participated in the election.
INEC has urged voters to report security threats, vote buying and other electoral offences through its Citizens Contact Centre as the exercise continues.
Meanwhile, ADC candidate Dare Bejide alleged that his driver was assaulted during an incident at a polling unit and reported the matter to the police.
Ahead of the election, Allied Peoples Movement (APM) candidate Joseph Anifowose withdrew from the race and endorsed Governor Oyebanji.
To be declared winner, a candidate must secure the highest number of valid votes cast and at least 25 per cent of the votes in no fewer than two-thirds of the state's 16 local government areas.
Collation of results is expected to begin after voting concludes.
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