Chinedum Elekwachi
CLEEN Foundation has said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security operatives should be held responsible for any political violence and lawlessness that might likely arise during the gubernatorial election in Anambra state.
Acting Executive Director of the Foundation, Peter Maduoma gave the warning in a statement signed and issued to newsmen in Onitsha, Anambra state.
He recalled that the elections in the State have a history marked by violence and political turmoil, particularly highlighted during the last 2003 elections in the state.
The statement reads in part, “Extreme violence, intimidation, and thuggery were prevalent during the last election.
“A significant incident was the abduction of sitting governor Chris Ngige, by police officers in 2003 who claimed they were acting on orders from his political “godfather.” Chris Uba.
“After the 2003 elections, Anambra continued to suffer from political chaos for years, with legal battles and violence causing unrest.
“In 2006, Ngige’s election victory was nullified due to fraud, enabling opposition candidate Peter Obi to step into power.
Violence persists
“The violence did not cease, as the political landscape remained tumultuous, with no accountability for those involved in Ngige’s abduction or other political crimes, fostering a culture of impunity.
“In recent years, Anambra has seen a troubling trend of political violence, with reports indicating 14 politically linked killings between 2022 and 2024.
“A report by the Cleen Foundation highlighted this issue and warned that the ongoing violence could hinder the upcoming November 2025 gubernatorial election.
” The rise in violent incidents and security threats linked to small arms, kidnappings, and armed groups creates significant risks for the electoral process.
“The report also pointed to a growing atmosphere of insecurity that affects voter confidence.
“Specific local government areas are identified as high-risk, and the emergence of armed cult groups has intensified the volatile political climate.
“Clashes between political factions show how intra-party rivalries can escalate into violence.
“Moreover, the manipulation of information by politicians contributes to public distrust in the government and the electoral system.
Security risks should be addressed
“As the November 2025 election approaches, stakeholders, including Independent National Electoral Commission and security agencies, should address these multifaceted security risks.
“They must ensure that plans for supporting security measures and ensuring the safety of election processes are underway, while efforts are needed to regain public trust for a successful voter turnout and civic participation.”
While regretting that the events of 2023 general elections might have resulted in voters losing faith in the overall process, Maduoma underscored the need for INEC and other stakeholders to improve on their efforts in regaining the trust of the electorate.
“From January to now, about 63 individuals have allegedly been abducted, raising concerns about additional kidnappings as the election nears.
“With more than 6,000 polling units throughout the 21 Local Government Areas, we anticipate observing a system where voters participate and exercise their civic duty.
“To allow the state address the security alerts, there should be series of briefings a month before the elections, and also produce an updated report.
“They will establish their security support center by November 7th to facilitate monitoring the situation,” he added.
