Preparations and Anticipation for Anambra State Governorship Election
As the governorship election in Anambra State approaches, residents are making last-minute preparations to ensure they are ready for the voting day on Saturday. Markets across the state have seen a surge in activity as people rush to make purchases before the anticipated restrictions on movement.
Although no official announcement has been made regarding movement restrictions, many residents believe that there will be limited mobility on Saturday. This expectation has led to a flurry of activity in markets, with buyers and sellers engaged in transactions throughout the day. Major cities such as Onitsha, Nnewi, Obosi, Ekwulobia, and Awka have witnessed a high volume of commercial activity.
In addition to market activities, motor parks have also been busy as commuters travel to their respective destinations to cast their votes. Our correspondent visited several motor parks, including Goodness and Mercy Motor Park in Upper Iweka, Onitsha, and New Triangle in Nnewi, and observed a significant number of people waiting to board vehicles.
Security forces have also increased their presence across the state, with armored vehicles and personnel stationed at strategic locations. This heightened security is aimed at ensuring a smooth and peaceful election process.
Residents and motorists are also making last-minute purchases at petrol stations to avoid being stranded. Long queues of vehicles were observed at various petrol stations, with customers buying PMS in jerry cans. Additionally, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Point of Sale (POS) terminals have been heavily used by customers to withdraw cash for their purchases and other preparations.
Despite the rush, the environment remains calm and peaceful, with residents continuing their daily routines. Many hotels in different communities have already been fully booked by election observers, journalists, party supporters, and voters. Some individuals who tried to book accommodation ahead of the election found themselves disappointed due to the lack of available rooms.
At several hotels, the Department of State Services and police teams have been present to maintain order. A manager at Resort Continental in Aroma, Awka, Mr. Martin Uzor, mentioned that all rooms were booked by Thursday, and many visitors were turned away. He also noted the increased security presence due to the arrival of dignitaries and external election observers.
Residents interviewed expressed satisfaction with the current calm atmosphere and urged for peace during the election. Grace Igwe, a trader at the Main Market, Onitsha, said, “Today has been a heavy day for commercial activities. We are happy that everywhere is calm and peaceful ahead of tomorrow’s election. And we hope to see a peaceful process tomorrow.”
Mercy Okonkwo, a civil servant, shared her sentiments, saying, “I used the opportunity of today’s work-free day to make some purchases ahead of tomorrow. Although the authorities have not announced any restrictions yet, we hope they will be announced. We hope to see a free, fair, and credible process that will produce the candidate of the people’s choice.”
Chris Ndukaku, a resident of Nnewi, traveled from Awka to Nnewi to register for his PVC. However, he forgot his wallet containing the document and had to send his daughter to retrieve it. He expressed hope for a free and fair election, emphasizing the importance of allowing people to exercise their franchise without molestation.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared full readiness for the governorship election scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025. According to Prof. Joash Amupitan, the Chairman of INEC, around 24,000 ad hoc staff will be deployed, and approximately 540 journalists have been accredited to cover the event. The commission has committed to conducting a credible and inclusive election.
A total of 16 candidates from 16 political parties are contesting the governorship election, aiming to unseat the incumbent, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, who is seeking re-election under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).