20/06/2026
*CDHR Deploys Nationwide Election Observers for Ekiti Governorship Poll, Unveils New Monitoring Kits*
Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State — The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has deployed accredited election observers from across Nigeria to monitor the June 20, 2026, Ekiti State governorship election, reaffirming its commitment to credible, transparent and peaceful electoral processes.
The observers arrived in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday, June 18, for a comprehensive briefing and distribution of election monitoring materials ahead of the poll.
The CDHR National Executive Committee (NEC), led by the General Secretary, Comrade Idris Afees Olayinka, alongside Comrade Akomolafe Helen and members of the Ekiti State branch, received the observers upon their arrival in the state capital.
Addressing the observers during the briefing session, the National President of CDHR, Comrade Yinka Folarin, welcomed participants from various states and charged them to conduct themselves professionally while adhering strictly to the guidelines established by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Comrade Folarin expressed gratitude for the safe arrival of all delegates and highlighted what he described as a significant milestone for the organization—the restoration of CDHR's participation in INEC activities following its removal from the commission's blacklist of organizations previously barred from electoral engagements.
According to him, the achievement was the result of sustained efforts by the organization's leadership and members working collectively to strengthen the credibility and relevance of CDHR in the democratic process.
He urged members to continue contributing positively to the growth of the organization while prioritizing their personal safety throughout the election observation exercise.
As part of preparations for the assignment, the National President unveiled newly branded CDHR observers' jackets, which will be used during the Ekiti governorship election and future national electoral engagements.
Election monitoring materials distributed to accredited observers included observers' checklists, jotters, INEC-accredited identification tags, writing materials, stickers and information kits designed to facilitate effective observation and reporting.
Speaking on behalf of participating branches, the leader of the Kwara State chapter of CDHR, Comrade Idris Saka, commended the leadership of Comrade Yinka Folarin and the Board of Trustees led by human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, for what he described as notable achievements recorded within six months of the current administration.
He attributed the successes to effective leadership, patience, competence and experience, while calling on members of the NEC to continue supporting the national leadership in pursuit of greater accomplishments.
Comrade Saka also praised observers who travelled from different parts of the country, describing their participation as a patriotic and national sacrifice, especially amid prevailing security challenges.
Other contributors at the briefing included Comrade Mustapha of the Ogun State branch, Comrade Adeyanju Charles, Chairman of the Ekiti State branch, Comrade Wole of the Ondo State branch, and Comrade Giwa of the Lagos State branch.
The event concluded with a group photograph session showcasing the newly unveiled observers' attire and election monitoring kits.
Following the briefing, the delegation led by Comrade Yinka Folarin paid courtesy visits to senior police authorities, including Adegoke Fayoade and the Assistant Inspector-General of Police overseeing Ondo and Ekiti States, as part of stakeholder engagement ahead of the election.
The deployment underscores CDHR's continued role in promoting electoral integrity, democratic accountability and citizen participation in Nigeria's democratic process.
