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Awka Anambra State
The ongoing Anambra governorship election has drawn widespread commendation from accredited international and local observers who have praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for ensuring a peaceful, transparent, and well-coordinated electoral process across the state. Reports from several polling centres indicated that voting proceeded smoothly, with minimal disruptions and strong cooperation between electoral officers, security agencies, and voters.
The positive feedback marks a significant milestone for INEC, which has faced criticism in previous elections over logistics, voter accreditation, and late commencement of polls. However, in this election, stakeholders have lauded the commission for its preparedness and efficient conduct, noting visible improvements in voter management and security coordination.
Observers Hail Smooth Conduct of the Polls
Several international observers deployed to Anambra State expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the election so far. Representatives from organizations such as the European Union Election Observation Mission, the Commonwealth Observer Group, and the African Union Election Monitoring Team described the process as “largely peaceful and well-organized.”
They commended the early arrival of electoral materials and officials in many polling units, as well as the professionalism displayed by INEC staff. Voters were observed queuing orderly, and security agents maintained a calm but effective presence to ensure safety and prevent intimidation.
“The electoral atmosphere in Anambra is calm, and voting procedures have been orderly. We are impressed with INEC’s logistics and the cooperation between officials and voters,” one EU observer stated.
Local observer groups, including the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) and Yiaga Africa, also confirmed that polling stations visited across Awka, Nnewi, Onitsha, and Ekwulobia recorded high levels of compliance with electoral guidelines.
INEC Commended for Logistics and Technology Deployment
The Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), a key innovation introduced by INEC, worked efficiently in most polling units, contributing to the seamless verification of voters. Unlike in previous elections, reports of malfunctioning devices were minimal and swiftly addressed by INEC technical support teams.
Observers noted that the use of BVAS not only reduced incidents of multiple voting but also increased public confidence in the electoral process. The real-time transmission of results from polling units to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) was another highlight, promoting transparency and accessibility.
“The BVAS technology has improved the credibility of the election process. The ability of INEC to handle technical hitches quickly is commendable,” said a representative of Yiaga Africa.
INEC officials across the state confirmed that adequate backup devices were provided to address any potential malfunction. The early deployment of logistics and materials also prevented the late start of accreditation and voting in most areas.
Security Agencies Praised for Maintaining Order
The election was also notable for its peaceful atmosphere, attributed to the proactive role of security agencies in maintaining order. The combined efforts of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Nigerian Army ensured that polling units were adequately protected without intimidating voters.
Security personnel were strategically deployed to sensitive locations, including border communities and volatile zones, to prevent disruption or violence. Their coordination and professional conduct earned praise from both voters and observers.
“The security presence was visible but not overwhelming. Voters felt safe, and there were no reports of harassment or undue interference,” one observer from the Commonwealth group remarked.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) had earlier assured residents of Anambra of a peaceful electoral environment, warning against voter suppression and political thuggery. His directive appeared to have been effectively implemented across the state.
Voter Turnout and Public Participation
Although the election was peaceful, voter turnout varied across different local government areas. Urban centres such as Awka and Onitsha recorded relatively high participation, while some rural areas experienced lower turnout due to transportation challenges and voter apathy.
Despite this, analysts have noted that the general enthusiasm among voters reflected a growing trust in the electoral system. Many voters expressed satisfaction with the orderly process and commended INEC for its improvements compared to past elections.
“This is one of the most organized elections I have seen in Anambra. The officials were punctual, and everything went smoothly. I hope the results will reflect the will of the people,” said a voter in Awka South.
Civil society groups also reported that youths and women participated actively, which they described as a positive indicator for democratic inclusion and representation.
Minor Hiccups and Isolated Complaints
Despite the generally peaceful process, there were a few isolated incidents of late arrival of materials and malfunctioning BVAS devices in some polling units, particularly in Idemili North and Orumba South. However, these challenges were promptly addressed by INEC officials, ensuring that affected voters were not disenfranchised.
Some reports also emerged of vote buying in certain locations, but observers stated that such incidents did not significantly affect the overall credibility of the election. Security agents reportedly arrested individuals found engaging in the illegal act.
“Every election comes with challenges, but what matters is how quickly they are resolved. INEC has shown remarkable improvement this time,” said an election monitoring group representative.
Stakeholders React: Commendation and Caution
Political parties contesting the election also shared mixed reactions. While the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Labour Party (LP) commended INEC for improving logistics and transparency, some expressed concerns over alleged voter inducement in a few polling areas.
However, the general consensus among stakeholders is that the process has been peaceful and credible so far. Many urged the commission to sustain its commitment to transparency during collation and result announcement.
“This election is a test of Nigeria’s democracy. We urge INEC to ensure that the collation process remains transparent and that every vote counts,” a PDP agent said in Onitsha.
Analysts: A Positive Sign for Electoral Reform
Political analysts and commentators have described the peaceful and coordinated conduct of the Anambra governorship election as a positive signal for Nigeria’s democracy. They noted that INEC’s performance demonstrates its growing capacity to deliver credible elections, especially with the integration of technology and improved voter management systems.
They also emphasized the need to build on these gains ahead of future elections, particularly through continuous voter education, security training, and improved logistics planning.
“What we have seen in Anambra is encouraging. If replicated nationwide, it will strengthen public trust in the electoral process and enhance democratic stability,” said Dr. Emmanuel Okafor, a political science lecturer.
Conclusion: A Model for Peaceful Elections in Nigeria
The peaceful and well-coordinated conduct of the Anambra governorship election stands as a model for electoral excellence in Nigeria. With minimal violence, efficient logistics, and high transparency levels, INEC has received commendations for upholding its promise of a credible process.
The cooperation between security agencies, election officials, and voters played a crucial role in maintaining calm and order throughout the exercise. As collation continues, citizens and observers alike hope that the final stages will mirror the same transparency and integrity seen at polling units.
The Anambra election has once again shown that with proper planning, commitment, and the will to do the right thing, credible elections are achievable in Nigeria.
