The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the distribution of election materials to 21 local government areas of Anambra State ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.

The election materials were being distributed at the Central Bank of Nigeria, Awka, Anambra State.

The election is expected to be a test of the country’s democratic process and the ability of INEC to conduct free and fair elections.

Anambra governorship election

According to INEC, a total of 2,802,790 registered voters are eligible to participate, including 140,370 newly registered voters across 326 wards.

The election will take place in 5,718 polling units, as two out of the expected 5,720 units have no registered voters.

Sixteen political parties have fielded candidates for the governorship race, including two women.

Anambra governorship election

The distribution of election materials is a crucial step in the electoral process, and INEC has assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure a smooth and peaceful election.

In a pre-election press statement, Yiaga Africa, a civil society organisation, expressed concerns over the security situation in the state, citing possible threats in Orumba North, Orumba South, Ogbaru, Ihiala, Nnewi South, and Aguata local government areas.

“Anambra State continues to grapple with complex security challenges, shaped by both internal and external dynamics,” Yiaga Africa stated.

Anambra governorship election

“Major concerns exist in the pre-election environment regarding intimidation and harassment by operatives of the vigilante security structure established by the Anambra State Government.”

Yiaga Africa has called for the dismantling of vigilante operative deployment across the state at least 24 hours before the election to enable security agencies to focus on ensuring a safe electoral environment.

The organisation also expressed concerns over the low number of new registrants, citing a possible apathy among voters.

Anambra governorship election

“Given this trend, and Anambra’s historical record of low voter turnout, there are serious concerns that the 2025 governorship election may witness turnout rates below 20%, further weakening electoral legitimacy,” Yiaga Africa stated.

The organisation has noted that this election which marks the seventh off-cycle governorship election since the 2023 general elections, will serve as a critical test of the INEC under the new INEC Chairman. “It also presents a key moment to assess Nigeria’s democratic credentials ahead of the 2027 general elections.”

The election is scheduled to take place on Saturday, and INEC has urged all eligible voters to come out and exercise their franchise.

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