Tension briefly disrupted voting activities in Ilawe Ekiti on Saturday after supporters of the APC and ADC engaged in a confrontation over allegations of vote buying during the governorship election.
The incident occurred at Polling Unit 4 in Ward 2 shortly after ADC governorship candidate Dare Bejide arrived to cast his vote. The disagreement began when accusations surfaced that individuals had allegedly brought money into the area for distribution to voters.
According to accounts from the scene, the situation became more heated after claims emerged that a political figure linked to the ruling party arrived near the polling centre with a large amount of cash. The allegation sparked arguments among party supporters, leading to a breakdown of order around the voting area.
As the dispute intensified, some supporters from both sides became involved in a scuffle. During the confrontation, one ADC supporter sustained a head injury and was immediately taken to a medical facility for treatment.
Despite the disturbance, electoral activities continued after calm was restored. Security personnel and election officials maintained their presence at the polling unit to prevent further unrest and ensure that voters could continue to cast their ballots.
Bejide alleged that attempts were made to distribute money to influence voters but said those involved were challenged before the plan could be carried out. He also claimed that the disagreement surrounding the alleged cash distribution led directly to the commotion witnessed at the polling unit.
The ADC candidate, however, expressed satisfaction with the conduct of election officials, stating that the voting process itself was proceeding smoothly. He commended electoral personnel for carrying out their duties and maintaining order despite the brief disruption.
The Ekiti governorship election is taking place across the state amid close monitoring by political parties, election observers and security agencies.
Authorities continue to urge voters and party supporters to conduct themselves peacefully throughout the exercise.