Tension, hope as Anambra voters choose new governor today

A charged atmosphere of both anticipation and apprehension envelops Anambra State as more than 2.8 million registered voters head to the polls today to elect a governor for the next four years.

The exercise marks the first major test for the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN), who assumed office just 17 days ago.

From Awka to Onitsha, Nnewi, Orsumenyi, and Isuofia, residents expressed mixed emotions—hope for credible leadership and concern over the challenges that have marred past elections.

Security agencies have mounted a massive operation across the state, deploying personnel from the Police, Army, DSS, NDLEA, and Immigration Service to ensure peace before, during, and after voting.

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On the ballot are Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) seeking re-election; Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu (APC); Dr. George Moghalu (LP); Sir Paul Chukwuma (YPP); John Chuma Nwosu (ADC); and Chioma Ifemeludike (AAC), the only female candidate.

Ifemeludike, a Nollywood actress known for her grassroots activism, has drawn attention with her passionate campaign, backed by the AAC national chairman, Omoyele Sowore, whose sympathy for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has resonated with some voters.

“In AAC, we believe in women’s leadership. God and my ancestors will bear me witness that I am willing to give my all to win this election, unless society says otherwise,” she said.

INEC confirmed that all 5,718 polling units across Anambra’s 21 LGAs are ready, with 2,802,709 registered voters expected to participate.

INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Queen Elizabeth Agwu, said all election materials had been distributed and ad-hoc staff fully trained.

“We are fully prepared,” she assured. “Our goal is to ensure that every vote counts and that the process remains transparent and credible.”

Prof. Amupitan also reiterated INEC’s commitment to fairness.
“Our responsibility is to the people of this nation. We are ready to deliver an election that is fair, credible, and reflective of the people’s will,” he said.

The Nigeria Police Force announced a full deployment of over 55,000 personnel to maintain peace. Deputy Inspector General Benjamin Okolo is overseeing operations, supported by AIG Akoh Gabriel and CP Abayomi Shogunle.

According to Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the deployment aims to protect voters, not intimidate them.

“The increase in security personnel is not to intimidate eligible voters but to ensure safety and effective coverage at every polling unit,” he said.
Aerial surveillance has also been activated to monitor movements.

Civil society organisations, including Yiaga Africa, Intersociety, CDD, and CTA, have urged citizens to turn out in large numbers and defy fear tactics.

Yiaga’s Executive Director, Samson Itodo, warned about insecurity in riverine areas.
“If security agencies don’t provide protection for INEC officials and materials, deployment will be difficult,” he said.

CDD’s Victor Adetula expressed concern about low mobilisation by parties, while CTA’s Faith Nwadishi called for synergy among security agencies and cautioned against vote-buying.

“Citizens’ choices must never be subverted by the negative use of money to influence votes,” she said.

For incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo, today’s poll is seen as a referendum on his first term. Supporters point to road projects, urban renewal, and fiscal discipline, while critics highlight insecurity and slow progress.

“People are tired of living in fear,” a trader in Onitsha said. “What we want now is peace and stability, not promises.”

Opposition parties, meanwhile, have accused Soludo of introducing harsh tax measures that hurt small businesses.

APC’s Ukachukwu is banking on federal backing, LP’s Moghalu leans on Peter Obi’s influence, and YPP’s Chukwuma draws strength from the Catholic Church’s support base.

Police have announced a total restriction of vehicular movement from 12 a.m. to 6 p.m. today, covering all major roads and interstate routes, to prevent the movement of political thugs.

“The decision is aimed at preventing the movement of political thugs and other criminal elements who may attempt to disrupt the electoral process,” said Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga.

As campaign billboards light up Awka’s skyline and last-minute strategy meetings wind down, voters across Anambra brace for what could be one of the most defining elections in the state’s history.

By tonight, Anambra will begin to answer the question: Who does the cap fit this time—Soludo, Ukachukwu, Moghalu, Chukwuma, or Nwosu?

(NATION)