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 stem primarily from allegations of vote buying and other electoral irregularities.
Heightened Tensions at Umeri Polling Unit
One of the most affected locations is Unity Primary School in 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) due to intense vote-buying accusations.
Vote Buying and Voter Manipulation
Observers from the Centre for Journalism and Innovation (CJID) report that the YPP distributed ₦5,000 alongside small quantities of rice to voters who pledged support. Meanwhile, party agents have been seen recording the names of voters, often confusing elderly and vulnerable individuals, thereby undermining the integrity of the election.
Security Presence and Electoral Law Violations
Despite the presence of both armed and unarmed security personnel attempting to maintain order, the situation remains volatile. The Supervisory Presiding Officer (SPO) has struggled to regain control as party agents continue to flout electoral regulations. An APGA party agent was observed closely monitoring the ballot area to identify voters supporting rival parties, further breaching electoral conduct rules.
Contrasting Scenes in Other Polling Units
In contrast, polling at Community Primary School Amawbia has been reported as calm and orderly, highlighting the uneven nature of the election atmosphere across the state.
Election observers emphasize the urgent need for stricter enforcement of electoral laws to ensure a free, fair, and credible voting process in Anambra State.
