According to a report by The Guardian on Monday 22nd June 2026, the Democratic Integrity Forum (DIF) has alleged that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) failed to remain impartial during the recent Ekiti State governorship election, raising concerns about the integrity of future elections in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Sunday, the group’s National Coordinator, Barr. Godwin Omini, claimed that certain INEC officials collaborated with members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the management of uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
According to the forum, nearly 400,000 unclaimed PVCs were allegedly diverted and distributed improperly, a situation it said compromised the electoral process and denied many eligible voters the opportunity to participate in the election.
The group also questioned comments reportedly made by APC chieftain Lere Olayinka concerning an aspirant of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), suggesting that the remarks may indicate unauthorized access to confidential electoral information.
DIF maintained that any breach involving voter registers, biometric data, polling unit records, or other sensitive information poses a serious threat to electoral transparency and public trust.
The forum warned that such allegations, if left unaddressed, could cast doubt on the credibility of the 2027 general elections and further weaken confidence in the country’s democratic institutions.
To address the concerns, the group urged INEC to launch an independent investigation into the distribution of uncollected PVCs and conduct a comprehensive audit of access to voter data in Ekiti State. It also called for disciplinary measures against any officials found responsible for wrongdoing.
Additionally, the forum appealed to the electoral commission to strengthen its data security systems, improve oversight mechanisms, and implement reforms aimed at safeguarding the integrity of future elections.
DIF further called on civil society organisations, the media, development partners, and international observers to closely monitor Nigeria’s electoral processes and support efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and independence within the electoral system.