- EU and CSOs launched an election monitoring hub in Ekiti
- Observers will monitor the June 20 governorship poll
- The initiative aims to ensure a transparent and credible election
The European Union (EU), in collaboration with a coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs), has introduced a Joint Election Observation Hub to monitor the upcoming Ekiti State governorship election and promote transparency throughout the electoral process.
The initiative, implemented under the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) programme, is designed to provide real-time observation of the June 20 governorship election through accredited election observers stationed across all local government areas of the state, Eko Hot Blog gathered.
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According to a statement issued by the EU Delegation on Thursday, the monitoring exercise will generate verified and evidence-based reports to enhance public confidence in the conduct of the election.
The coalition behind the initiative includes Yiaga Africa, the International Press Centre (IPC), the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), TAF Africa, The Kukah Centre and the Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF).
Speaking during the unveiling in Ado-Ekiti, the organisers explained that the Observation Hub would function as a central platform for coordinating, verifying and analysing reports submitted by observers deployed to polling units across the state.
The observers are expected to assess key aspects of the election, including the opening of polling units, voter accreditation, voting procedures, vote counting, result collation, media coverage, compliance with electoral guidelines and the overall integrity of the process.
The coalition also stated that special attention would be given to the participation of women, youths and persons with disabilities to ensure the election is inclusive and reflects democratic principles.
It noted that verified reports from the field would be analysed in real time and shared with the public through regular updates to improve transparency, counter misinformation and encourage peaceful participation before, during and after the election.
According to the organisations, the initiative demonstrates the ability of Nigerian civil society groups to work together in protecting the country’s democratic process.
They explained that combining their expertise, extensive networks and election observation experience would enable them to provide timely and credible information capable of strengthening transparency and boosting public confidence in the electoral process.
The coalition stressed that credible elections depend on the commitment of all stakeholders, including citizens, electoral officials, security agencies, political parties, the media and civil society organisations.
It urged residents to participate peacefully, reject violence and misinformation, and contribute to an election that truly reflects the will of the people.
Also speaking, the Governance Adviser at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Laolu Olawumi, reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to supporting democratic governance through locally driven initiatives.
He described the Joint Election Observation Hub as a significant platform led by Nigerian organisations, saying it reflects the EU’s long-term support for sustainable democratic institutions while ensuring that Nigerians remain at the forefront of efforts to strengthen democracy.
The June 20 Ekiti governorship election is widely regarded as one of the country’s most significant off-cycle polls and is expected to provide insight into voter sentiment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji is seeking a second term, while opposition parties are aiming to take control of the state.
Political analysts believe the election will also serve as another test of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s electoral reforms, particularly the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), alongside broader issues such as election security, voter turnout, misinformation and the inclusion of vulnerable groups.
The organisers expressed confidence that the Joint Election Observation Hub would complement INEC’s efforts by providing independent monitoring, prompt verification of incidents and reliable information capable of strengthening transparency and public trust in the outcome of the election.
They added that beyond the Ekiti poll, the initiative is intended to reinforce democratic values and contribute to the conduct of peaceful, credible and inclusive elections across Nigeria.
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