The UK High Commission in Nigeria congratulates Abiodun Oyebanji on his re-election as Ekiti State governor following the June 20 governorship election. In a statement, the High Commission says the election is conducted peacefully, but it also raises concerns about aspects of the voting process. It points to reports of vote trading and vote buying, and notes that problems with the BVAS (biometric voter accreditation system) affected the flow of accreditation and voting. The High Commission further highlights barriers faced by voters with disabilities, saying accessibility issues limited participation for some people.
The Punch and Vanguard both report that the UK’s comments include these same issues—vote buying or vote trading, BVAS delays or glitches, and inadequate access for persons with disabilities—while acknowledging the peaceful conduct of the poll. Across the outlets, the focus is on balancing the congratulatory message to the re-elected governor with the UK’s call for improvements in election administration and voter accessibility.
