Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Voting Disruptions Mar Anambra State Gubernatorial Election in Anambra East
As the Anambra State gubernatorial election commences, several polling stations in Anambra East are experiencing significant disturbances caused by party agents. These disruptions primarily stem from allegations of vote buying and other electoral malpractices.
Heightened Tensions at Umeri Polling Unit
One of the most affected locations is Umeri, specifically at Unity Primary School Mgbago, Ward 13, Polling Unit 6, where chaotic scenes have unfolded. Party representatives have been actively interfering with the voting process, particularly targeting the Young Progressive Party (YPP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Vote Buying and Voter Intimidation
Observers report that some party agents are openly engaging in vote buying, offering cash and food items to sway voters. For instance, monitors from the Centre for Journalism and Innovation (CJID) documented that the YPP distributed ₦5,000 alongside portions of rice to individuals who pledged their votes. This practice has led to confusion, especially among elderly voters who are more susceptible to manipulation.
Electoral Law Violations and Security Challenges
Despite the presence of both armed and unarmed security personnel tasked with maintaining order, enforcement has been challenging. The Supervisory Presiding Officer (SPO) has attempted to restore calm, but party agents remain defiant. An election observer from CJID noted that agents from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) were scrutinizing the ballot area to identify voters supporting rival parties, a clear breach of electoral regulations.
Such incidents highlight the ongoing struggle to uphold the integrity of the electoral process in the region, with multiple reports indicating widespread violations of voting laws.
Context and Broader Implications
These disruptions come amid increasing concerns about electoral transparency in Nigeria. According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), over 70% of polling units nationwide have reported some form of irregularity in recent elections, underscoring the need for stricter enforcement and voter education.
Efforts to curb vote buying and intimidation are critical to ensuring that the democratic process reflects the genuine will of the people, especially in politically sensitive states like Anambra.
