INEC, Security Agencies Steered Anambra Towards A Credible Poll
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
As Nigeria continues to grapple with trust deficits in its electoral process, Anambra State has offered a refreshing glimpse into what can be achieved when institutions take responsibility and work in synergy.
The governorship election in the state did more than produce winners and losers; it demonstrated how a coordinated effort between the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies can strengthen public confidence in democracy.
INEC’s Commitment to Transparency
INEC’s preparations for the poll began months before election day. Officials conducted continuous voter registration, expanded voter education, and deployed technology to reduce irregularities.
Key actions included:
Efficient Deployment of BVAS: The Bimodal Voter Accreditation System was deployed to tolling units on time, ensuring smooth accreditation and reducing concerns about impersonation and multiple voting.
Early Arrival of Materials: Sensitive and non-sensitive materials were transported to local government offices under security escort. Many polling units recorded early commencement of voting, a marked improvement from previous delays.
Training of Ad-hoc Staff: INEC organised targeted refresher training that emphasised professionalism, neutrality, and proper handling of electoral technology. This reduced operational errors and boosted voter confidence.
Real-Time Monitoring: Through its situation room, INEC tracked challenges as they arose and responded promptly. This included redeploying faulty BVAS devices and replacing missing materials.
Security Agencies Ensured Safety and Order
Security agencies played a pivotal role in achieving a peaceful election, especially in a state that has, in recent times, faced security concerns.
Their contributions included:Robust Joint Operations: The police, military, civil defence, DSS and other agencies jointly mapped flashpoints and developed a coordinated security plan. This reduced duplication of duties and ensured rapid response capability.
Visible Presence Without Intimidation: Security personnel were strategically deployed to deter violence while maintaining a calm, professional posture that reassured voters rather than frightened them.
Swift Response to Incidents: Minor disruptions that emerged in parts of the state were quickly contained. Arrests were made where necessary to prevent escalation.
Escort and Protection for INEC Staff: From the distribution of materials to the collation of results, security officials provided continuous protection for INEC personnel, ad-hoc staff, and observers.
Collaboration Made the Difference
One of the standout features of the Anambra election was the high level of collaboration between INEC and security agencies.
Regular pre-election meetings, intelligence sharing, and joint briefings ensured that both institutions were aligned in purpose.
Civil society organisations also noted that this partnership reduced interference, protected the sanctity of the vote, and limited opportunities for manipulation.
Voters Recognised the Improvement
Reports from various polling units revealed that voters acknowledged the improved logistics, greater sense of safety, and more orderly environment.
Although challenges like voter apathy still exist, many described the process as more credible than previous cycles.
A Model Worth Building Upon
The Anambra experience is a glimpse into 2027 and demonstrates that credible elections in Nigeria are possible when institutions rise above politics and prioritise national interest.
INEC’s administrative fairness and the professionalism of security agencies collectively set a benchmark that can be replicated in the 2027 general elections.
For a democracy still finding its grounding, this is not just progress, it is a promise, and as onye Anambra that I am, I give kudos to INEC and security agencies, especially the police, for making my state retain its pace-setting status as the light of the nation.
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