The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has received widespread praise from international observers and civil society organisations for what has been described as a transparent, well-organised, and peaceful conduct of the ongoing Anambra State governorship election.
In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr. Dayo Oketola, the Commission was commended for its coordination, improved logistics, and effective deployment of technology across the state.
Reports from the INEC Situation Room indicated that voting proceeded smoothly with high voter turnout and a calm atmosphere—an improvement from the 2021 election.
Observers Hail INEC’s Organisation and Technology Use
Ambassador Dr. Emmanuel Nkweke of the International Association of World Peace Advocates lauded the electoral body for its professionalism and efficiency.
“The process has been peaceful and well-managed. Accreditation is smooth, BVAS is working effectively, and INEC officials have been courteous and professional,” Dr. Nkweke said while monitoring polling stations in Awka.
He also commended the security agencies for maintaining order at voting centres.
“We observed as many as seven police officers at some polling units, all conducting themselves excellently. The inter-agency coordination has been impressive and worth commending,” he added.
Addressing speculations about vote buying, Nkweke noted that his team had not encountered any such incidents.
“We report what we see, not rumours. So far, the process has been peaceful, transparent, and credible,” he affirmed.
Civil Society Groups Note Early Deployment and Efficiency
Civil society organisations also acknowledged INEC’s strong logistics and early deployment of materials and personnel.
Ms. Cynthia Mbamalu, Director of Programmes at Yiaga Africa, highlighted the commission’s improved preparedness.
“Our observers noted early arrival of materials and INEC officials in several locations. In Amawbia, Awka South, they arrived by 7:34 a.m., and voting began at 8:30 a.m. as required by the Electoral Act. This demonstrates a high level of readiness,” she stated.
Voters, Leaders Praise Seamless Process
Several stakeholders and voters across Anambra expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the election.
Hon. Dominic Okafor, representing Aguata Federal Constituency, described the process at his polling unit in Igboukwu as “seamless and peaceful.”
“The BVAS devices worked perfectly, and officials were punctual. I commend the INEC Chairman and his team for a well-run exercise,” he said.
Similarly, the Chairman of Orumba South Local Government Area, Mr. Shedrack Azubuike, applauded the orderliness of the process.
“This election reflects how democracy should function — peaceful, organised, and people-driven,” he remarked.
INEC Reaffirms Commitment to Credible Elections
INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN), reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s electoral process.
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“Our duty is to the Nigerian people. INEC remains dedicated to ensuring that every valid vote counts and that the process is credible, transparent, and peaceful,” he declared.
A Model for Future Elections
With positive assessments from observers and stakeholders alike, the Anambra governorship election is being hailed as a benchmark for credible and peaceful polls in Nigeria.
Many believe that INEC’s effective logistics, early deployment, and collaborative security arrangements could serve as a model for future elections nationwide.
