UK Hails Adeleke’s Re-Election, Flags Vote-Buying, BVAS Challenges

• UK congratulates Adeleke on Osun re-election, commends voters for peaceful participation.

• British High Commission flags vote-buying, BVAS delays and access challenges in Osun poll.

• UK urges electoral institutions to address gaps ahead of 2027 general elections.

August 18, () — The British High Commission has congratulated Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election, while commending voters for their peaceful participation in the August 15 governorship election.

In a statement on Monday, the High Commission said its accredited observers witnessed several positive aspects of the election, including the timely opening of polling units in many locations, effective electoral procedures by INEC officials and the commitment of security personnel to maintaining order.

It, however, raised concerns over isolated incidents that created tension, voter interference, including vote-buying across party lines, limited access for persons with disabilities and elderly voters, as well as overcrowding linked to the speed and limited availability of BVAS devices.

The commission urged relevant institutions to review the challenges and implement recommendations from credible observer groups, including the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, to strengthen public confidence, transparency and accountability.

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It also noted that off-cycle elections benefit from additional personnel and resources that may be difficult to replicate during nationwide elections, urging lessons from the Osun poll to inform improvements ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The United Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to working with Nigeria’s electoral institutions, civil society and other stakeholders to support peaceful, transparent, inclusive and credible elections.