INEC Sets Stage for 2025 Anambra Gubernatorial Election with Enhanced Security Measures
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unveiled comprehensive plans for the upcoming Anambra State Governorship Election scheduled for November 8, 2025, emphasizing its commitment to delivering a credible and transparent electoral process.
During Tuesday’s quarterly Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) meeting in Abuja, newly appointed INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, outlined the Commission’s preparedness strategy for what will be his first major off-cycle election since taking office.
The electoral body plans to deploy approximately 24,000 ad hoc staff across 5,718 polling units, with two units excluded due to zero voter registration. Results will be collated through a three-tier system comprising 326 ward centres, 21 local government collation centres, and the State Collation Centre in Awka.
Recent technical trials have shown promising results, despite minor challenges. A mock accreditation exercise using the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) was conducted across 12 polling units in six local government areas, with contingency measures now in place to address identified network issues.
To boost voter participation, INEC has extended the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection period to run from October 29 to November 2, 2025. This decision follows reports indicating that only 63.9 percent of registered voters have collected their cards.
The Commission has also strengthened its logistics arrangements, partnering with transport unions including NATO, NURTW, and MUWN to secure 200 buses and 83 boats for efficient movement of personnel and materials, particularly in hard-to-reach riverine areas.
Security preparations have received special attention, with various agencies confirming comprehensive deployment plans. During a previous ICCES meeting in Anambra, the Police, DSS, NSCDC, and military authorities presented coordinated security strategies for the entire electoral period.
Prof. Amupitan emphasized the need to combat electoral malpractices, particularly vote buying, calling on security and anti-corruption agencies to maintain vigilance. He stressed that the success of the Anambra election would serve as a benchmark for Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
As the election approaches, INEC continues to work closely with stakeholders to ensure that this gubernatorial contest sets new standards for electoral excellence in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
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