Election Preparation Begins in Anambra State
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has initiated the distribution of sensitive and non-sensitive election materials to various local government areas across Anambra State. This critical step is part of the preparations for the upcoming governorship election, scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025. The distribution took place at the Central Bank of Nigeria branch in Awka, with strict supervision from the state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Queen Elizabeth Awgu.
The event was marked by a significant presence of security personnel, ensuring the safety of all involved. Party agents, representatives from civil society organizations, and security operatives were also on-site to monitor the process. Their involvement underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
Key Materials Being Distributed
Among the sensitive materials being distributed are the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), Forms EC8A, and Forms EC8B. These items will be transported to the various Registration Area Centres (RACs) ahead of the election. According to INEC, these materials play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the voting process.
Dr Awgu emphasized that the early distribution of materials is a strategic move to ensure the election starts on time across the state. She urged citizens to participate actively in the process, stating, “People should come out and vote; participate in this election process. Do not stay at home thinking that your vote will not count, and do not assume that your candidate has already won.”
She further highlighted that INEC is fully prepared for the election and is committed to delivering a credible and peaceful exercise. “Party agents and security operatives jointly supervised the distribution of sensitive materials to ensure transparency. We have been at the CBN since 9 am, and everything has gone smoothly without any challenges or complaints. This shows our readiness and commitment to delivering a credible election,” she said.
Enhanced Security Measures
In addition to the material distribution, there has been a significant increase in the number of security personnel deployed for the poll. The Commissioner of Police in charge of election security in Anambra, Abayomi Shogunle, revealed that the number of officers has been raised from 45,000 to 55,000.
According to Shogunle, this increase is aimed at providing adequate protection for voters, electoral officials, and election materials across the 21 local government areas. He clarified that the additional personnel are not intended to intimidate voters but to ensure effective operations and safety at every polling unit.
“The increase in security personnel is not to intimidate eligible voters but to ensure effective operations and safety at every polling unit. We want to guarantee voters’ confidence in coming out to cast their ballots without fear,” he explained.
Shogunle added that the officers will be drawn from the Nigeria Police Force, Immigration Service, NDLEA, DSS, and other sister agencies. At least three security officers will be deployed to each polling unit across the state. “We assure the people of Anambra that the election will be free, fair, transparent, and devoid of intimidation. Our collective aim is to ensure the safety of voters, INEC officials, and all stakeholders involved,” he stated.
Overview of the Election
As the election approaches, it is worth noting that 16 candidates from 16 registered political parties are contesting in the governorship election. Their goal is to wrest power from the incumbent governor and candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.
The comprehensive efforts of INEC, in collaboration with political parties, security agencies, and civil society organizations, reflect a strong commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and transparent election process. With the distribution of materials and enhanced security measures in place, the stage is set for a successful and credible electoral exercise in Anambra State.