By Cajetan Mmuta, Awka
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it is 99 per cent ready for the November 8, 2025, governorship election in Anambra State, with 24,000 ad hoc staff set to be deployed across 5,718 polling units.
INEC’s National Commissioner in charge of Anambra, Dr Kenneth Ikeagu, made this known during an interactive session with media executives in Awka, assuring that the Commission was fully prepared to deliver a credible, transparent, and peaceful election.
“We have made adequate arrangements for logistics, personnel, and security. Our staff and materials will be at polling stations by 7 am,” Ikeagu said. “We are not going to compromise, and there shall be no delay.”
He revealed that all sensitive and non-sensitive election materials had been received and would be distributed under heavy security supervision a few days before the poll.
Flanked by top INEC officials, including Dr Queen Elizabeth Agwu (Anambra REC), Mr Sam Olumekun (National Commissioner, Information and Voter Education), Prof. Rhoda Gumus (Planning and Monitoring), and Dr Baba Bila (Logistics and Operations), Ikeagu outlined the Commission’s readiness across all fronts.
He disclosed that 81 observer organisations applied to monitor the election, of which 76 were approved. Collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), he said, would close by 5 pm on Sunday.
“We have also made arrangements for riverine communities, including provision of boats to convey election personnel and materials safely,” he added.
On security, Ikeagu assured that the Commission had reached agreements with all security agencies for “adequate manpower deployment to maintain peace and order before, during, and after the poll.”
INEC further warned political parties and voters against vote-buying, intimidation, or any act capable of undermining the credibility of the exercise.
“We appeal to all stakeholders to act responsibly,” Ikeagu urged. “This election is about the people of Anambra and their future. We must protect the sanctity of the ballot.”
With the declaration of 99 per cent readiness, the Anambra governorship election is shaping up as a significant test for INEC’s logistics efficiency and credibility ahead of the 2027 general elections.
