INEC urges peaceful, issue-based campaigns ahead of Ekiti governorship poll

By Boye Oyeyemi –

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned political parties and candidates in Ekiti State against hate speech and violent campaigns ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship election.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Dr Bunmi Omoseyindemi, said the ban on public campaigning would be lifted on Wednesday, January 21, with activities expected to end at midnight on June 18.

Omoseyindemi spoke on Tuesday in Ado-Ekiti at a stakeholders’ meeting attended by INEC officials and representatives of political parties cleared for the poll.

He urged parties to conduct issue-based and peaceful campaigns, stressing that inflammatory rhetoric, misinformation and personal attacks could threaten the credibility of the election.

The REC said the warning followed the publication of the final list of governorship candidates and their running mates for the 12 political parties qualified to contest the election.

According to him, the commencement of campaigns marked a sensitive stage of the electoral process that required restraint and strict compliance with the Electoral Act and campaign guidelines.

He warned that any breach of campaign rules or actions capable of disrupting public peace would attract sanctions in line with the law.

Omoseyindemi assured residents of INEC’s readiness to work with security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure a credible and peaceful election in the state.