By Chikaodi Chukwuleta
Coalition of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Accredited Observers Group for Credible and Transparent Election on the Saturday’s Anambra State Gubernatorial Election has agreed to work together in discharging their mandate of standing for credible, transparent, peaceful, free and fair election in Nigeria.
This was disclosed during a press conference held at Meloch Hotel, Awka, Anambra State.
The group added that the coalition has deployed over 350 observers across the 21 local government areas of the state, who are currently working and keenly observing the level of preparedness of all the key actors in the electoral system and their subsequent conduct during and after the upcoming election.
They commended the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo for providing security in the state, which has created a more conducive environment for electoral activities.
“The security situation in Anambra State has shown remarkable improvement compared to previous election cycles. Comparatively during the 2021 Gubernatorial Election, our observers were unable to access many areas due to security concerns, specifically Ihiala, Ekwusigo, Nnewi North and South, Ogbaru, Orumba North and South, but today, the previously identified flashpoints have witnessed significant security improvement, allowing our field agents to track distributions and observe preparations without major hindrances. Despite the general improved security situation, our coalition has identified potential threats that require urgent attention.”
According to them, “we have received credible intelligence that some anti-democratic forces are planning to disrupt elections in certain parts of the state to facilitate rigging in parts of Ihiala, Ayamelum, and Nnewi South”.
Based on their comprehensive observation of the pre-election environment, they advised INEC to continue to ensure neutrality, impartiality and strict adherence to the provisions of the constitution and Electoral Act of 2022 and regulations, guidelines for the conduct of elections in Nigeria.
The group urged the security agencies to provide robust protection for voters, election officals and materials, and ensure strict enforcement of movement restrictions on election day.
They also encouraged political actors to respect the peace accord and maintain issue-based engagement, while Ndi Anambra should come out en mass on Saturday, 8th November, to exercise their franchise.
“Your vote is your power, protect it and make sure it counts,” they said.
