Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) has declared itself 100 percent ready to conduct the September 28 local government election in Anambra State, Ikengaonline reports.
The Commissioner in charge of Information and Publicity at ANSIEC, Anthony Nnalue, made the disclosure on Thursday during a sensitisation programme organised by the International Peace and Civil Responsibility Centre (IPCRC).
Nnalue said all the necessary sensitive materials and ad hoc personnel are ready, pointing that there would not be scenarios where electoral materials and personnel are found wanting at polling stations.
“We’ll be at the polling unit waiting for you. The era of waiting for materials and personnel to arrive will be a thing of the past. By 8 am, materials are sure to be at all the polling units in the state,” he said.
He revealed that over 5,720 ad hoc staff have been trained to conduct the elections across the state’s polling units. He also disclosed that he does not know the exact number of parties participating but confirmed that all political parties with a stake in the elections will be involved.
Nnalue said that the commission will utilise voter registration data from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the elections.
He announced that ANSIEC will not use the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) for the council elections. He noted that the machine is not reliable and credible, citing instance of its disappointing performance in previous elections in Nigeria.
He also said that the commission has opted for manual accreditation instead, deeming it more trustworthy.
He further noted that elections in certain areas of Nnewi South, Idemili South, and others will be conducted in their local government councils due to security concerns.
Meanwhile, Chris Azor, the Coordinator of IPCRC, who spoke at the meeting emphasised the importance of vigilance during the upcoming local government election. He outlined various potential issues to watch out for, including vote buying, violence, gender discrimination, and over-voting.
Azor, who is also the Coordinator of Accredited Observers, expressed commitment to ensuring free, fair, credible and peaceful election in the state.
“As accredited observers for the forthcoming Anambra State local government election, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring a free, fair, credible, transparent, and peaceful electoral process.”
He reiterated their dedication to impartial and independent observation, as well as their adherence to electoral laws, promotion of voter education, and accurate reporting of any incidents or irregularities.
Azor commended ANSIEC for its preparedness and encouraged political parties and candidates to prioritise peaceful conduct and stakeholder engagement.
He also called on security agencies to maintain neutrality, respect human rights, and uphold the rule of law.
