In an update published by The Punch, an Anglican Bishop has issued a stern warning to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and political parties to ensure that the upcoming off-cycle elections in Ekiti and Osun are free, fair, and devoid of violence. Speaking at a New Year service, the cleric emphasized that Nigeria cannot afford another ‘flawed electoral exercise’ which further erodes public trust in democratic institutions.
The Bishop also called on the youth to resist being used as ‘political thugs’ by candidates who keep their own children safely abroad. He urged the electorate to focus on ‘issue-based voting’ rather than ‘stomach infrastructure,’ noting that the economic choices made during these state elections will have long-term consequences for regional development.
Corroborating details from The Nation and Leadership highlight the religious focus on politics. The Nation noted that ‘other religious bodies are planning a joint peace accord,’ while Leadership quoted the Bishop: ‘The ballot must be more powerful than the bullet in Ekiti and Osun.’
Echotitbits take: Off-cycle elections are often ‘test runs’ for the general election. With Ekiti and Osun coming up, the Church is positioning itself as a moral watchdog. Watch for whether INEC introduces new ‘anti-rigging’ technology specifically for these two states to address the ‘judicial technicalities’ Falana recently complained about.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/anglican-bishop-calls-for-credible-ekiti-osun-polls/ January 5, 2026
Photo Credit: The Punch
