Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, expressed his delight at the peaceful conduct of the local government election held in the state on Saturday, emphasizing its role in democratizing governance at the grassroots level.
Speaking to newsmen yesterday after casting his vote at Okelele Unit 003, Ward 06 in Ikogosi Ekiti, Ekiti West local government area, Governor Oyebanji underscored the importance of local government elections in enhancing the democratic process. He remarked, “The people, on their own, will have the opportunity to choose their representatives at the local government level.”
While acknowledging the relatively low turnout, Governor Oyebanji identified the need for increased voter education and sensitization to enhance participation in future local government elections.
Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, who voted at Unit 003, Atiba/Aafin Ward in Ikere Ekiti, echoed the sentiment of a peaceful election, noting a significant improvement compared to the 2021 governorship poll. She described the election as a “tremendous improvement” and commended the peaceful atmosphere in which it was conducted.
The election witnessed a successful and violence-free process, reflecting a positive contrast to the 2021 governorship poll. However, it was marked by a low turnout of voters in various local government areas, wards, and polling units observed.
In one of the visited polling units, it was noted that eight political parties contested for chairmanship positions, while 14 parties vied for councillor positions. Chairman of Ajoni LCDA, Prince Michael Ogungbemi, seeking reelection, commended the Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) for organizing what he termed a flawless election. Ogungbemi praised the timely arrival of election materials and SIEC officials, the peaceful security atmosphere, and the orderly conduct of voters during the exercise.
