The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun the distribution of sensitive materials for the November 8, 2025, governorship election in Anambra State.
The exercise, which commenced on Thursday morning, was supervised by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the state, Dr Queen Elizabeth Agwu, who assured that all arrangements were in place for a credible and peaceful poll.
Agwu, who monitored the distribution of materials from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) office in Awka, said the process began at 9 am with the dispatch of key election items, including the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), Forms EC8A and EC8B, to various local government areas and Registration Area Centres (RACs).
She explained that the distribution was carried out under the joint supervision of political party agents, security operatives, and other stakeholders to ensure transparency and accountability.
"The movement of materials has been smooth and hitch-free. We have been at the CBN since morning, and there have been no complaints or challenges. This shows our readiness to conduct a credible election," Agwu said.
The REC urged Anambra residents to come out en masse on Saturday to vote for candidates of their choice, dismissing fears that the outcome of the election had already been predetermined.
"People should come out and vote. Don’t stay at home thinking your vote won’t count, and don’t assume that your candidate has already won. INEC is fully prepared, and we assure the people of a transparent and peaceful process," she added.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in charge of election security in Anambra State, Abayomi Shogunle hailed the distribution process and reaffirmed the readiness of security agencies to maintain order during the poll.
Shogunle disclosed that the number of security personnel deployed for the election had been increased from 45,000 to 55,000 to ensure effective coverage across the state.
"By this deployment, at least three security personnel will man each polling unit. The officers include personnel from the Nigeria Police, Immigration Service, NDLEA, DSS, and other sister agencies," he said.
He explained that the move was not intended to intimidate voters but to safeguard the process and build public confidence.
"Our collective aim is to guarantee the safety of voters, INEC officials, and all stakeholders. The election will be free, fair, transparent, and devoid of intimidation," Shogunle assured.
The Anambra governorship election will take place across the state’s 21 local government areas on Saturday, November 8, 2025.
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