Anambra Guber Election: Police assure security as INEC distributes ballot materials
As Anambra State gears up for Saturday’s crucial governorship election, security authorities have assured residents that all necessary measures are in place to ensure a peaceful voting process.
The Commissioner of Police overseeing election operations in the state, Abayomi Shogunle, confirmed on Thursday that personnel were fully prepared to secure both land and riverine areas.
Shogunle made the announcement as officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) arrived at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) branch in Awka to collect sensitive election materials.
Shogunle disclosed that elections will not take place in two polling units due to the absence of registered voters.
“My primary responsibility is to ensure that adequate security is maintained throughout the election period.
”The only exception is the two polling units where no voters are registered; otherwise, voting will proceed as scheduled across the state,” he explained.
Shogunle highlighted the comprehensive security arrangements that have been put in place, including patrols on land, waterways, and in the air.
“A police patrol helicopter flew over the area shortly before this interview, and police boats are actively patrolling riverine areas to prevent any disruption.
”We are also collaborating with the Nigerian Navy to ensure all communities, including riverine regions, can vote safely,” he said.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Queen Agwu, supervised the distribution process, which was also attended by party agents, journalists, and election observers, although the officials arrived slightly later than the scheduled 10 a.m. start.
According to INEC, a total of 2,802,790 registered voters are expected to participate across 5,718 polling units in all 21 local government areas of the state.
Sixteen candidates are vying for the governorship seat, including incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Nicholas Ukachukwu (APC), Paul Chukwuma (YPP), George Moghalu (LP), and Jude Ezenwafor (PDP).
INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan reiterated the commission’s dedication to conducting a credible and transparent election, while warning against attempts to manipulate the process through vote-buying or violence.
The distribution of electoral materials is being conducted in phases.
From the CBN, the materials will be moved to local government super racks, then to polling unit racks, ensuring that all items reach their destinations before the opening of the polls on Saturday.
As the state prepares for the election, both INEC and security agencies are emphasising coordination, transparency, and vigilance to guarantee a smooth and credible voting process.
