As Anambra State governorship election commences in hours, palpable safety concerns are casting a long shadow over the poll. Despite a massive security deployment and a stern warning against logistics failure from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stakeholders remain cautious about the volatile environment.
The INEC is left with a coalition of security agencies to manage the complex interplay of political rivalry, insecurity from non-state armed groups, and the risks of vote-buying and intimidation.
The countdown to Saturday’s Anambra governorship election was fraught with safety concerns amidst Anambra Elections, challenging the resolve of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and massive security forces deployed to the state. INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, has placed the integrity of the poll squarely on the shoulders of his staff, demanding that the eyes of the world watching Anambra must witness flawless logistics and prompt commencement of voting by 8:30 a.m.
The Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security, ICCES, has also orchestrated a massive security deployment to safeguard the Anambra Governorship Election. This significant security presence includes the deployment of 45,000 Police Personnel and 10,250 NSCDC Officers on the ground. To enhance monitoring capabilities, Aerial Surveillance involving helicopters and drones has been deployed for the real-time observation of flashpoints across the state.
However, fears of violence, especially in supposed flashpoint local government areas like Ihiala, Nnewi South, and Orumba South, coupled with the potential misuse of state-backed security outfits and a history of voter apathy, mean the promise of a peaceful process remains a delicate balance. A robust security strategy, including the deployment of over 55,000 police and civil defence personnel, aerial surveillance, and a signed Peace Accord, is the main bulwark against these pervasive threats to democracy in the state.
Furthermore, security protocols include the Withdrawal of VIP Security to curb the misuse of armed escorts by political figures on Election Day, and a stern Warning to Non-State Actors, making it clear that vigilante groups and other unauthorized security outfits must steer clear of all polling units.
