The Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) has maintained that the August 29, 2026 date it fixed for the conduct of local government elections across the state remains sacrosanct.
Almost two months to the election, there appear to be little or no electioneering campaign activities going on in the state, save for some candidates of the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA.
Opposition parties have called for the cancellation of the polls, alleging a grand plot to favour APGA candidates during the elections.
But, while speaking in Awka, ANSIEC Commissioner for Information and Publicity, Chief Anthony Nnalue, said preparations were progressing smoothly, with staff deployed to various assignments to ensure a credible and hitch-free exercise.
Nnalue, however, expressed concern over the low level of campaign activities by political parties despite the commission having lifted restrictions on electioneering several weeks ago. He attributed the situation partly to economic factors.
“Also, people have realized that elections are not won by parading vehicles and blaring sirens everywhere. Many are now embarking on underground work, internal consultations and forging coalitions.
“So, although we want the environment to be lit with campaign activities, we still understand that campaign financing is a major challenge, and that many candidates are exploring other cost-effective campaign options,” he said.
He disclosed that the commission plans to engage about 5,000 ad hoc staff for the elections, which will be conducted in all 21 local government areas, wards, and communities across the state.
The commissioner commended Governor Charles Soludo for supporting the electoral process and assured residents of ANSIEC’s commitment to a free, fair, and transparent election.
He also urged eligible voters to participate actively, warning that voter apathy could allow a few individuals to determine the outcome on behalf of the majority.
“It is wrong for the electorate to sit in their houses and complain about bad leadership when they can actually participate in the process and engender the change they desire.
“So, our people need to change this attitude and begin to do their part on election day. If they don’t cast their votes, they have lost their rights to demand anything from those who eventually ascend those positions of authority,” he said.
