Ekiti Governorship Poll Most Peaceful in State’s History — BOUESTI Don

By Joseph Sunday 

The Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies at Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI), Dr. Daniel Nwanmereni, has described the just-concluded Ekiti State governorship election as one of the most peaceful in the state’s history.

Speaking with journalists in his office in Ikere-Ekiti, Nwanmereni commended residents for their peaceful conduct before, during and after the poll.

He said he was particularly impressed that the election remained largely free of violence and rancour in Ikere-Ekiti, despite the town producing two of the leading candidates in the contest.

According to him, the peaceful atmosphere reflected the political maturity and civility of Ekiti people.

“Ekiti people are among the most peace-loving citizens in the country. I was impressed by the peaceful conduct of the election. The people displayed remarkable maturity and there was no significant violence. That is highly commendable,” Nwanmereni said.

The university don noted that a political contest involving prominent candidates from the same community could have triggered tension elsewhere in the country, and said the Ekiti experience was worthy of study.

“For two leading candidates, one a governorship candidate and the other a deputy governorship candidate, to come from the same town and yet have such a peaceful election is remarkable. In some states, such a situation could have led to serious unrest,” he added.

Nwanmereni also commended the Ekiti State Governor for providing a level playing field for all political actors, saying the peaceful conduct of the poll reflected the administration’s commitment to democratic values.

“I commend the Governor for ensuring that the election was conducted without intimidation or violence. His approach demonstrates a commitment to peace and democratic governance,” he said.