International observers and civil society organisations have commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the transparent, efficient, and peaceful conduct of the ongoing Anambra State Governorship Election, describing the process as orderly, credible, and well-coordinated.
Reports from accredited observer groups monitored in the INEC Situation Room indicated smooth logistics, improved voter turnout compared to 2021, and a generally calm atmosphere across polling units. Both local and international monitors praised the commission’s effective use of technology and strong coordination under the leadership of its Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN.
Ambassador Emmanuel Nkweke of the International Association of World Peace Advocates hailed INEC’s preparedness and professionalism, noting that voting materials, BVAS deployment, and security arrangements were “exceptionally well-coordinated.”
“The process has been peaceful and well-managed. Accreditation is smooth, BVAS is functioning properly, and INEC officials are courteous and efficient,” he said while observing polling in Awka.
Nkweke also lauded the conduct of security agencies, highlighting their professionalism and cooperation.
“We observed up to seven police officers at some units, and their behaviour was exemplary. The environment is calm and secure,” he added.
CSOs Applaud Early Deployment and Smooth Process
Civil society organisations also praised INEC for the early deployment of personnel and materials. Yiaga Africa’s Director of Programmes, Cynthia Mbamalu, said the timely start of voting reflected INEC’s readiness and efficiency.
“Our observers saw officials and materials arriving as early as 7:34 a.m. in Amawbia, Awka South. Voting began on schedule by 8:30 a.m., in line with the Electoral Act,” she said, describing the promptness as “a positive sign of transparent elections.”
Hon. Dominic Okafor, representing Aguata Federal Constituency, and Orumba South LGA Chairman, Shedrack Azubuike, both praised INEC officials and voters for maintaining a peaceful and orderly process.
“The officials are efficient, BVAS is functioning, and voters are turning out responsibly. This is how democracy should work,” Azubuike said.
TAF Africa founder, Jake Epelle, also described the security atmosphere as calm, crediting Anambra residents for their peace-loving conduct and self-restraint.
Record PVC Collection Reflects INEC’s Preparedness
Observers linked the smooth conduct of the election to INEC’s extensive pre-election planning, noting the Commission’s record 98.8% Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection rate.
Of the 2,802,790 registered voters, 2,769,137 collected their PVCs following a decentralised distribution process and a five-day extension period. Some areas, including Ugbene, Alor, Ogbunike, and Umunya, achieved 100% collection, while rural and riverine communities exceeded 99%.
These figures, according to observers, demonstrate growing public trust and administrative efficiency under Prof. Amupitan’s leadership.
Renewed Confidence in INEC
INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to credible and inclusive elections.
“Our duty is to the Nigerian people. INEC is committed to ensuring that every valid vote counts and that the process remains credible, transparent, and peaceful,” he said.
With reports of seamless operations, strong security coordination, and record voter preparedness, observers described the Anambra Governorship Election as a milestone in Nigeria’s democratic process — and a testament to renewed confidence in INEC’s leadership and electoral integrity.
