Anambra Governorship Election: Peace, Order, and Smooth Voting Mark Polling Day
By Chizoba Njaka
The governorship election in Anambra State proceeded peacefully and smoothly across multiple wards, highlighting strong community preparedness and effective security arrangements. Early in the day, around 8:30 to 8:50 a.m., voting materials arrived promptly at various polling units, including Aroma Junction 1 in Agu Oka, Ogbugbakwa, Umubele, Isuofia, and Aguluzogbo. Despite some initial challenges, such as at Polling Unit 008 Aroma Junction 1 where a canopy had to be hired after the property owner initially refused permission, the election process commenced without significant delays.
In Aroma Junction 1, security personnel ensured order while shops remained closed and traffic was halted, reflecting the community’s readiness for the polls.
Similarly, at Polling Unit 002 Aroma and other locations, election observers and security officials maintained a calm and secure atmosphere as voters were accredited and voting progressed.
Ogbugbakwa and Umubele wards witnessed peaceful voting, with Ogbugbakwa recording a high turnout and Umubele experiencing a relatively low turnout but calm conditions.
At Isuofia's Ofuiyi Square Polling Unit 002 and Aguluzogbo in Anaocha Local Government, election materials were in place early, and security presence contributed to a violence-free environment where voters participated fully.
Among the voters interviewed, Mr. James Ifediegwu praised the smooth conduct of the election, calling it the best he has experienced due to the timely arrival of materials and officials.
A Stakeholder, Ozor Jude Emeka Agummadu echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the absence of voting apathy and violence, and expressing hope that other states would emulate Anambra’s peaceful process.
Commissioner of Police for Elections in Anambra State, CP Abayomi Shogunle, attributed the successful and peaceful election day to thorough police planning and close collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies.
CP Shogunle noted that the sizeable voter turnout reflects the effectiveness of months of preparation. By mid-afternoon, collation of results was underway at various locations.
In Umubele Ward 5, polling units 028, 029, and 030 completed collation by 3:30 p.m., with Polling Unit 002 finishing by 3:53 p.m. The entire process remained peaceful, reaffirming the orderly conduct of the election.
The smooth and secure conduct of the governorship election in Anambra signals a promising step forward for democratic practice in the state, setting a positive example for other regions in Nigeria.