A video circulating on social media has sparked debate ahead of the Ekiti State governorship election.
In the clip, a man displays what he claims were campaign items distributed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in support of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
The man reportedly recorded the 13 second video in a rural community. He shows a small collection of food items and claims APC supporters shared them during campaign outreach before the June 20, 2026, off cycle governorship election. Chatters Nigeria could not independently verify the claim or determine where and when the distribution allegedly took place.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji is seeking a second term after winning the 2022 governorship election. He remains the favourite in a race featuring 13 candidates. His main challengers include Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Wole Oluyede and candidates from other political parties.
The video has generated mixed reactions across social media. Some Nigerians criticised the alleged giveaway and linked it to the country’s rising cost of living. Others questioned why politicians still rely on such gestures during election campaigns. Several users also mocked the items, describing them as a “campaign menu for four years.”
Vote buying and voter inducement remain major concerns during elections in Nigeria. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has repeatedly warned political parties and candidates against offering money, food or other items to influence voters. The electoral body also encourages citizens to report suspected violations through the appropriate channels.
Civil society organisations have also continued to campaign against vote buying. They argue that the practice weakens democracy and encourages poor governance by allowing politicians to prioritise short term gifts over long-term development.
Ekiti is one of Nigeria’s off cycle governorship states. The election will determine who leads the state for the next four years. Security agencies and election observers have assured residents of measures to ensure a peaceful and credible process.
As of the time of filing this report, Governor Oyebanji’s campaign had not responded to the claims in the viral video. Voting is scheduled to begin tomorrow across Ekiti State.
