The distribution of sensitive election materials from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has commenced in Ekiti State ahead of the governorship election and federal constituency by-elections scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2026.
Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were seen at the Central Bank office in Ado-Ekiti sorting and preparing materials for deployment to all 16 local government areas of the state.
The exercise, which is being carried out under tight security, involves the movement of electoral materials to designated locations across the state ahead of voting day.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ekiti State, Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, said the process has been smooth and assured that all materials would be delivered on schedule to ensure a hitch-free election.
Security personnel have been deployed across key locations, with police officers providing escort for the movement and safeguarding of sensitive electoral materials.
INEC also confirmed an increase in the number of registered voters in the state, which rose from 987,647 in 2023 to 1,059,360 in 2026.
According to a statement by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, the number of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) collected also increased significantly.
PVC collection rose from 958,052 in 2023 to 1,028,929 in 2026, representing a collection rate of about 97 percent of registered voters.
The commission stated that the PVC collection exercise was successfully concluded ahead of the election after an extension from the original deadline of June 11 to June 14, following consultations with stakeholders in Ado-Ekiti.
INEC also disclosed that it received 14,406 applications for replacement PVCs due to loss, damage, or defacement, all of which were processed and printed within the stipulated timeframe.
However, the commission noted that the option of downloadable voter cards could not be implemented for the current election cycle due to incomplete technological infrastructure.
It added that the digital option would be introduced in future elections, including the forthcoming Osun governorship election in August 2026 and the 2027 general elections.
The electoral body reiterated its readiness to conduct a credible and transparent election, urging voters to come out peacefully and participate in the democratic process.
