Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) were deployed to the polling unit of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Saturday as voting commenced in the state’s governorship election.
The anti-graft agency’s presence was observed at Polling Unit 003, Ward 06, Ikogosi, in Ekiti West Local Government Area, where Governor Oyebanji cast his vote in the ongoing election.
EFCC Arrives Shortly After Voting Begins
According to reports, about 10 EFCC operatives arrived at the polling unit around 9:08 a.m., shortly after voting commenced across several parts of the state.
While the commission has not officially stated the purpose of the deployment, the move is widely believed to be part of efforts to curb vote-buying, voter inducement, and other electoral offences during the poll.
Election observers have noted that the agency has increasingly played a visible role in monitoring elections across Nigeria, particularly in areas where concerns over vote trading are high.
Peaceful Voting Across Ekiti
Voting reportedly began around 8:30 a.m. in many polling units, with officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies maintaining order.
Residents were seen arriving steadily at polling centres to cast their votes, while security personnel monitored activities to ensure compliance with electoral guidelines.
At Governor Oyebanji’s polling unit, electoral activities proceeded without disruption as voters queued to participate in the exercise.
Oyebanji Seeks Second Term
Governor Oyebanji, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), is seeking re-election against 13 other candidates in what political analysts describe as one of the most closely watched off-cycle governorship elections in the country.
The governor’s polling unit has a total of 668 registered voters and witnessed steady turnout during the morning voting period.
Security Agencies Intensify Monitoring
Security agencies have maintained a strong presence across the state to prevent electoral violence and ensure a credible process.
The deployment of EFCC personnel adds another layer of oversight as authorities attempt to prevent financial inducements that have often been associated with elections in parts of the country.
Election officials say voting is progressing smoothly in most areas, while collation of results is expected to begin after the close of polls.
Reactions From Nigerians
The EFCC’s presence at the polling unit sparked reactions online:
@PoliticalObserverNG
“This is exactly what Nigerians want to see. Strong monitoring against vote buying.”
@EkitiCitizen
“The EFCC should be at every polling unit, not just where top politicians vote.”
@DemocracyWatch
“Their presence alone can discourage electoral malpractice.”
@AdeyemiReports
“What matters is neutrality. The agency must monitor all parties equally.”
@VoiceOfThePeople
“A peaceful election is more important than who wins. Security agencies should stay alert until results are announced.”
With voting underway across Ekiti State, attention remains focused on turnout, security, and the eventual outcome of the election that will determine who governs the state for the next four years.
