Ekiti Poll: Police Warn Against Unofficial Results as INEC, Situation Room Flag 469 Flashpoints

The Ekiti State Police Command has warned political actors, groups and individuals against announcing unofficial results ahead of Saturday’s governorship election, stressing that only the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has the constitutional authority to declare election outcomes.

The warning comes as the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room and INEC identified 469 polling units across the state as potential security flashpoints requiring special attention during the election.

Commissioner of Police for the Ekiti Governorship Election, Abayomi Shogunle, said security agencies would not tolerate attempts to undermine the electoral process through the circulation of false or unauthorised results.

According to him, the Electoral Act 2022 clearly outlines offences relating to elections, including the unlawful announcement of results by individuals or organisations not authorised to do so.

Shogunle stated that the police would actively monitor traditional and social media platforms before, during and after the election to prevent the spread of misinformation capable of creating confusion or inciting violence.

“The Electoral Act is very clear on certain conducts that constitute electoral offences. Anyone found announcing unofficial election results or spreading fabricated outcomes will face the full weight of the law,” he warned.

The police commissioner urged residents, political parties and supporters to remain law-abiding and allow INEC to perform its constitutional responsibility without interference.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room and INEC have raised concerns over security risks in some parts of the state, identifying 469 polling units that may require enhanced monitoring and security deployment.

The organisations noted that the identification of flashpoints was aimed at preventing violence, voter intimidation and other activities that could threaten the credibility of the election.

Observers and security agencies are expected to pay close attention to the affected areas to ensure a peaceful and transparent voting process.

The governorship election is expected to attract significant national attention, with political parties making final preparations to mobilise voters across the state.

Authorities have repeatedly appealed for peaceful conduct, urging stakeholders to avoid actions capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral process.

The police assured residents that adequate security arrangements had been put in place to safeguard voters, election officials and electoral materials throughout the exercise.