By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor in Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The Chairman of the Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (EKSIEC), Rt. Hon. Justice Akintayo Ilori (Rtd), has paid a courtesy visit to the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ekiti State Command, Commandant Sotiyo Igbalawole Emmanuel, as preparations gather momentum for the local government elections scheduled for December 2026.During the visit to the NSCDC State Headquarters, Justice Ilori commended the corps for its professionalism and dedication to electoral security in Ekiti State. He noted that NSCDC personnel had consistently demonstrated competence and discipline during previous local government elections, contributing significantly to the peaceful conduct of the polls.The EKSIEC Chairman expressed confidence in the corps’ ability to continue providing effective security support during the forthcoming elections. He also emphasised the importance of sustaining the long standing partnership between EKSIEC and the NSCDC, particularly in the areas of election security, monitoring and the protection of democratic processes.Justice Ilori further stated that collaboration among key stakeholders remains essential to ensuring a credible, transparent and peaceful electoral exercise across the state. He added that the commission looks forward to continued cooperation with security agencies as it intensifies preparations for the polls.Responding, Commandant Sotiyo thanked the EKSIEC Chairman and his delegation for the visit and reaffirmed the commitment of the NSCDC to supporting the electoral process. He assured the commission that the corps would deploy its personnel and resources to safeguard electoral officers, election materials and voters before, during and after the elections.The Commandant also reiterated the corps’ resolve to work closely with relevant stakeholders in promoting peace, public safety and security across Ekiti State, stressing that a secure environment remains critical to the success of any democratic process.