By Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the distribution of sensitive materials ahead of the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State, southeastern Nigeria.
The distribution exercise, held at the Central Bank of Nigeria in Awka, was conducted under tight security and witnessed by representatives of political parties, election observers, media personnel, and officials of the electoral commission to ensure transparency and accountability.
Speaking during the exercise, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Anambra State, Dr. Queen Elizabeth Agwu, reaffirmed INEC’s preparedness to deliver a credible, inclusive, and peaceful election.
She explained that the sensitive materials distributed include the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines, Forms EC8A and EC8B, and ballot papers, which are being dispatched to all 21 local government areas of the state.
“What we are doing here at the Central Bank is the distribution of sensitive materials — the BVAS devices and result sheets — ahead of Saturday’s election,” Dr. Agwu said.
“By Friday, these materials will arrive at the Registration Area Centres (RACs), where officials will conduct final checks and trainings before dispatching them to polling units on election morning.”
Dr. Agwu urged eligible voters to come out in large numbers to exercise their civic rights, dismissing voter apathy and the belief that election outcomes are predetermined.
“People should come out and vote. Do not stay home thinking your vote will not count or that your candidate has already won. INEC is fully prepared and committed to ensuring that every vote counts,” she added.
The REC also expressed appreciation to the media and other stakeholders for their roles in promoting transparency throughout the electoral process.
Anambra State has 5,718 polling units, and results are expected from all local government areas.