The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has started moving sensitive and non-sensitive election materials to various local government areas in Anambra State ahead of the November 8 governorship election.
The exercise took place on Thursday, November 6, at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) branch in Awka, where officials of the commission, political party agents, civil society observers, and security personnel supervised the distribution.
The state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Queen Elizabeth Awgu, who oversaw the operation, said it was part of INEC’s plan to ensure that all materials reached their destinations on time before the election.
She said, “People should come out and vote; participate in this election process. Do not stay at home thinking that your vote will not count, and do not assume that your candidate has already won.
“INEC is fully prepared for this election, and we are assuring the people of Anambra State of a credible and peaceful exercise.”
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Awgu added that the process had been smooth, with all parties working together to maintain transparency.
“Party agents and security operatives jointly supervised the distribution of sensitive materials to ensure transparency.
“We have been at the CBN since 9 am, and everything has gone smoothly without any challenges or complaints. This shows our readiness and commitment to delivering a credible election,” she stated.
She explained that the materials, including the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and election result forms, would be sent to the Registration Area Centres (RACs) across the state for final deployment ahead of election day.
According to INEC, the commission has made comprehensive arrangements with security agencies, civil society groups, and political parties to ensure a peaceful and credible poll.
A total of 16 candidates representing 16 political parties will contest in the election, including the incumbent governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).