The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned against vote‑buying ahead of the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State. INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan made the statement during a meeting of the Inter‑Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) that focused on the Anambra governorship race. He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to conducting free, fair and credible elections that truly reflect the will of the Nigerian people.
After a comprehensive readiness assessment across the state, INEC confirmed it is prepared for the polls. However, a recent mock accreditation exercise using the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in selected polling units experienced network problems. Despite this setback, the commission is working to ensure a smooth, stress‑free election. Vote results will be collated at ward centres, then at local government area centres, and finally at the State Collation Centre in Awka.
Because only 63.9 % of voters have collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), INEC has extended the PVC collection period in Anambra State from 29 October to 2 November 2025 to avoid disenfranchising eligible voters. The commission also stressed the need for close cooperation among all security agencies to maintain the credibility of the election.
To facilitate the transportation of poll officers and sensitive materials, INEC has arranged with transport unions to provide 200 buses and 83 boats. Prof. Amupitan called on all stakeholders to help combat vote‑buying, urging security agents to create an environment that prevents vote‑buyers from operating. He emphasized that upholding democratic values and ensuring election credibility are essential as the poll approaches.
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