The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has declared that the electoral body is fully prepared for the upcoming Ekiti State governorship election, while cautioning political stakeholders and residents against the spread of fake news and misinformation.
Speaking ahead of the June 20 governorship poll, Amupitan stressed that INEC had put all necessary measures in place to ensure a credible, transparent, and peaceful electoral process.
According to him, the commission’s greatest concern is not logistical challenges but the growing threat posed by false information capable of undermining public confidence in the election.
He urged political parties, candidates, the media, and voters to verify information through official channels before sharing it, noting that misinformation could create unnecessary tension and disrupt the democratic process.
Amupitan reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting a free and fair election, adding that electoral officials have undergone the required training and that sensitive and non-sensitive materials would be deployed as scheduled.
The INEC chairman also called on security agencies, civil society organisations, and other election observers to work together in safeguarding the integrity of the poll. He encouraged eligible voters in Ekiti State to come out peacefully and exercise their civic responsibility without fear.
The Ekiti governorship election is expected to serve as a significant test of Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of the 2027 general elections. As preparations intensify, stakeholders continue to emphasise the importance of peaceful conduct, transparency, and the collective responsibility of citizens in protecting the sanctity of the ballot.
INEC has repeatedly assured Nigerians of its readiness to deliver a credible process, urging the public to reject fake news and rely on verified updates from the commission throughout the election period.
The INEC chairman said misinformation and disinformation remain major threats to the credibility of elections and urged the public to seek information from trusted and official sources.
