By Ayodele Oni
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has clarified that Monday’s list of candidates and their deputies for the Ekiti governorship election was final.
However, any political party whose candidate’s name is missing can still be added if there is a Court judgement to that effect.
In the list signed by INEC National Commissioner, Rose Oraran-Anthony, name of the flagbearer of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) elected during the party’s Congress last year Wole Oluyede was missing.
Names of the 12 political parties which will feature in the contest were listed in the latest list.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ekiti State, Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, made the clarification on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ engagement held at the INEC state office.
The REC cautioned political parties and their candidates participating in the Ekiti State governorship election to strictly adhere to electoral laws and conduct themselves responsibly to sustain the peaceful atmosphere ahead of the June 20, 2026 poll.
The meeting brought together representatives of political parties, security agencies, the media, civil society organisations, traditional rulers and other key stakeholders.
Omoseyindemi urged political parties to conduct issue-based campaigns as the official campaign period begins on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
He advised them to demonstrate maturity by shunning hate speech, inciting statements, personal attacks and the spread of misinformation capable of undermining the electoral process.
According to him, while INEC recognises the constitutional right of political parties and candidates to campaign freely, such rights must be exercised within the confines of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), the Electoral Act 2022, and the Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Campaigns.
The REC further warned against violence, intimidation and the disruption of opponents’ lawful campaign activities, stressing that parties must strictly adhere to approved venues, routes and campaign timelines.
He noted that any violation of the guidelines would attract appropriate sanctions as provided by the law.
Omoseyindemi also enjoined political parties to properly notify security agencies and relevant authorities ahead of rallies and other campaign activities to ensure adequate security and public order, reaffirming INEC’s commitment to peaceful campaigns that would culminate in a credible election and sustained stability in Ekiti State.
He equally charged journalists covering the election to uphold professionalism, fairness and ethical standards in the discharge of their duties.
Discover more from The Source
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
 has clarified that Monday's list of candidates and their deputies for the Ekiti){kind=link}