Paragraph 1: Anambra State’s Electoral Preparedness
The Anambra State branch of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the state police command have affirmed their readiness for the upcoming August 16 senatorial bye-election and the November 8 governorship election. INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Elizabeth Agwu, and Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, in separate interviews, detailed their respective agencies’ preparations. Orutugu highlighted the regular meetings of the Anambra State Security Committee, comprising various security agencies, focused on analyzing the security landscape and formulating preemptive strategies. These meetings also include INEC to ensure synchronized planning and a seamless electoral process.
Paragraph 2: Collaborative Security Efforts
Orutugu emphasized the collaborative efforts among security agencies to ensure a secure environment before, during, and after the elections. He acknowledged the invaluable support received from Governor Chukwuma Soludo and Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, which has bolstered the command’s capacity to maintain order and security within the state. He further appealed for continued support to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the police force in carrying out their duties. This inter-agency cooperation and high-level support are crucial for ensuring peaceful and credible elections.
Paragraph 3: INEC’s Voter Registration Drive and Election Logistics
On the electoral front, Agwu clarified that the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, beginning on July 17 and running daily from 9 am to 3 pm, pertains exclusively to the November governorship election and not the upcoming senatorial bye-election. She encouraged eligible voters to participate actively, either by registering afresh or updating their biometric data. Agwu specified that new registrations must be conducted in person at designated INEC offices, while data corrections or revalidation can be done online. This distinction streamlined the registration process and prevents confusion among voters regarding the two distinct elections.
Paragraph 4: Bye-Election Procedures and Future CVR Plans
For the August 16 senatorial bye-election, voters will utilize their existing Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). Following this bye-election, a separate nationwide CVR exercise will be launched in preparation for the 2027 general elections. This phased approach allows for focused attention on each election cycle and ensures that the voter register is updated regularly. Agwu emphasized the commission’s zero-tolerance stance on unauthorized registrations, stressing that registrations conducted outside designated hours or on behalf of absent individuals would not be accepted.
Paragraph 5: Technological and Human Resources for the Governorship Election
In preparation for the November governorship election, INEC has configured 300 Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) scanners to ensure efficient voter accreditation. Arrangements are also finalized with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for the deployment of corps members as ad hoc staff. These logistical preparations demonstrate INEC’s commitment to leveraging technology and human resources for a smooth and transparent electoral process. Agwu also highlighted the completion of training for ad hoc committees and verification of the BVAS machines, signaling the commission’s meticulous attention to detail and its proactive efforts to prevent technical glitches.
Paragraph 6: Transparency, Security, and Stakeholder Engagement
Agwu underscored INEC’s commitment to transparency and accountability by stating that the commission does not charge any fees for voter registration and warned against fraudulent practices. She emphasized the existing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with transport unions to facilitate logistics, ensuring efficient movement of personnel and materials. She also assured the public of adequate security measures during the elections, highlighting the planned deployment of security personnel from across the country. Agwu’s proactive communication with stakeholders, including the press and the public, builds confidence in the electoral process and encourages active participation. Her personal verification of the BVAS machines and her assertion of adequate security demonstrate INEC’s dedication to conducting free, fair, and credible elections in Anambra State.
