JUST IN: EFCC Storm Oyebanji’s Polling Unit Amid Vote-Buying Concerns In Ekiti Election

Officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Saturday arrived at the polling unit of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, during the ongoing governorship election in the state.

The presence of the anti-graft agency raised fresh attention at the polling centre amid widespread concerns over alleged vote-buying and voter inducement across several parts of Ekiti.

The operatives, numbering about ten, were sighted at Polling Unit 003, located at Foutage of Oyebanji Okelele, Ward 06, Ikogosi in Ekiti West Local Government Area. They arrived at about 9:05 a.m., shortly after voting had begun at the unit at around 8:30 a.m.

Eyewitnesses at the scene said the EFCC officials positioned themselves around the polling environment and monitored activities as voters cast their ballots.

Security presence at the unit was already visible, and the operatives were seen engaging briefly with deployed security personnel while observing the electoral process.

Although the EFCC did not immediately issue any public statement on the purpose of the deployment, their presence is believed to be connected to ongoing efforts to curb electoral malpractice, particularly vote-buying, which has been a recurring concern in previous elections in the state.

Voting at the governor’s polling unit reportedly started peacefully, with early turnout recorded shortly after commencement.

POLITICS NIGERIA earlier observed that only an agent of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was present at the unit at the time voting began, despite the participation of multiple political parties in the contest.

The polling unit reportedly has 668 registered voters, according to available voter data. As of the time of filing this report, voting continued under close monitoring, with security operatives maintaining order and ensuring compliance with electoral guidelines.

However, there was no reported disruption, confrontation, or arrest at the polling unit following the arrival of the EFCC team. Electoral activities were said to be ongoing smoothly, with voters exercising their civic duty under the supervision of election officials.

The Ekiti governorship election is currently holding across all 16 local government areas of the state. Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the incumbent, is seeking re-election against candidates fielded by several opposition parties in a closely watched contest.