Anambra State Urges Voters to Participate in Upcoming Governorship Election
The Anambra State Government has issued a strong appeal to all eligible voters across the state, urging them to come out in large numbers and actively participate in the upcoming governorship election scheduled for Saturday. The government emphasized that voter participation is not just a right but a crucial responsibility that reflects commitment to democratic values.
In a press statement released on Friday, the state Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, highlighted the importance of this election, especially in addressing the low voter turnout experienced during the 2021 governorship election. At that time, only about 200,000 out of over 2.7 million registered voters cast their ballots. This low participation, according to Mefor, undermines the democratic process and weakens public confidence in governance.
He stated, “The Anambra State Government calls on all eligible voters across the state to come out en masse and actively participate in the forthcoming governorship election scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025. Active participation in this election is particularly important to reverse the low voter turnout recorded during the 2021 governorship election, when only about 200,000 of the over 2.7 million registered voters exercised their franchise.”
Mefor further encouraged citizens to take pride in their role as part of the “Light of the Nation.” He added, “As the Light of the Nation, Anambra has consistently taken the lead. Ndi Anambra should therefore, once again, lead by example by turning out in large numbers to vote peacefully and responsibly.”
Electoral Readiness and Stakeholder Confidence
PUNCH Online reported that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared full readiness for the governorship election, which will be held across 5,718 wards in the state. The commission’s Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, confirmed during a stakeholders meeting in Awka that approximately 24,000 ad hoc staff will be deployed to ensure smooth operations. Additionally, around 540 journalists have been accredited to cover the election, reflecting the high level of transparency and public interest in the process.
Prof. Amupitan also reiterated the commission’s commitment to conducting credible and inclusive elections. He stressed that INEC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that every vote is counted accurately.
A Competitive Political Landscape
The governorship election in Anambra is expected to be highly competitive, with 16 candidates from 16 different political parties vying for the position. These candidates are challenging the incumbent, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, who is seeking re-election under the platform of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA). The contest represents a significant moment in Anambra’s political history, as it will determine the future direction of the state.
This election is seen as a test of the state’s democratic maturity and the ability of its citizens to make informed choices. With the stakes high, the call for active participation remains a central theme in the lead-up to the poll.
Key Points to Note
- The Anambra State Government is urging all eligible voters to participate in the upcoming governorship election.
- Voter turnout in the 2021 election was low, with only 200,000 out of 2.7 million registered voters casting their ballots.
- INEC has declared full readiness for the election, with 24,000 ad hoc staff and 540 journalists accredited to cover the event.
- Sixteen candidates from 16 political parties are contesting the election, challenging the current governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.
- The election is viewed as a critical test of Anambra’s democratic process and civic engagement.