As vote-buying, militarisation, and insecurity tighten their grip on Anambra ahead of the November 2025 election, citizens are left asking whether their votes will truly count.
Development Diaries reports that no fewer than 60,000 security personnel from the police, civil defence, army, navy, and air force have been deployed across 5,720 polling units in Anambra State for this weekend’s governorship election.
With 2,802,790 registered voters and 16 political parties contesting, the poll is expected to be a major test of the resolve of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold transparency, especially in a state known for its complex political landscape.
The INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan (SAN), has emphasised that the commission has completed 11 of the 13 statutory activities in line with the Electoral Act 2022, an indication of thorough preparation ahead of the exercise.
His firm warning against election misconduct shows INEC’s commitment to keeping the election honest and credible.
However, concerns persist over the increasing militarisation of the voting environment and the prevalence of vote-buying, which have historically marred elections in Nigeria.
With about 60,000 security personnel mobilised, 45,000 of them police officers, questions arise about how this heavy security presence will affect voter confidence and turnout.
While robust security is necessary to prevent violence, excessive deployment could create fear among voters, leading to voter apathy.
Reports of insecurity and the exclusion of the state-owned security outfit, Agunechemba, following allegations of potential bias, further highlight the fragile balance between ensuring safety and maintaining a conducive atmosphere for civic participation.
INEC’s warning that electoral officials and party agents will face sanctions for any violation of the Electoral Act is commendable, but must be matched with visible enforcement on election day.
The deployment of technology, such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), and the presence of observers must be effectively coordinated to ensure that financial inducements and manipulation of results are curtailed.
As Anambra State goes to the polls, INEC, security agencies, political parties, and voters must commit to ensuring a peaceful, transparent, and credible process.
And for the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Abayomi Shogunle, he should guarantee that security forces act with professionalism and restraint, focusing on protecting voters rather than intimidating them.