The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the distribution of both sensitive and non-sensitive election materials across the 21 local government areas of Anambra State ahead of the governorship election scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025.
The distribution exercise, which took place at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) branch in Awka on Thursday, was closely supervised by the state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Queen Elizabeth Awgu, under tight security. Representatives of political parties, civil society organisations, and security agencies were present to ensure transparency and proper monitoring of the process.
Among the materials distributed were the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices, result sheets (Forms EC8A and EC8B), and other electoral documents. INEC explained that the early movement of these materials to the various Registration Area Centres (RACs) was to ensure smooth deployment and timely commencement of voting on election day.
Addressing journalists at the venue, Dr Awgu urged residents to participate actively in the election, emphasising that every vote would count. She assured the electorate of INEC’s readiness to conduct a credible, transparent, and peaceful poll. “We have been at the CBN since 9 am, and the process has been seamless. Party agents and security operatives have jointly supervised the movement of materials, which shows our commitment to transparency,” she said.
She added that INEC had worked closely with political parties, security agencies, and civil society groups to ensure a free and fair process.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in charge of election security in Anambra, Abayomi Shogunle, announced an increase in the number of deployed security personnel from 45,000 to 55,000 to ensure maximum safety during the exercise. The officers, drawn from the Police, Immigration Service, NDLEA, DSS, and other sister agencies, will be stationed across all polling units to safeguard voters, INEC officials, and materials.
Shogunle stressed that the move was not intended to intimidate voters but to boost confidence and guarantee a peaceful atmosphere. “We want voters to come out without fear. At least three security officers will be present at each polling unit to maintain order and ensure safety,” he explained.
As Anambra heads to the polls, 16 candidates from various political parties will contest for the governorship seat currently held by Prof. Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
The outcome of Saturday’s election will not only determine the state’s political direction but also carry implications for local economies. A peaceful and credible election is expected to restore investor confidence, stabilise the political climate, and boost economic activities, especially for small traders and artisans who often bear the brunt of election-related disruptions.
Residents across the state are hopeful that the exercise will be peaceful and that the will of the people will prevail at the ballot box.
