The Social and Integral Development Centre (SIDEC) has congratulated the people of Anambra State on the peaceful and credible conduct of the Saturday, November 8, 2025 governorship election.
The organization particularly celebrates the active participation of women, youths and persons with disabilities (PWDs), describing it as a major boost to democratic inclusion and civic ownership.
SIDEC also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Security Agencies led by the Nigeria Police Force, the Media and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) for their collective roles in delivering a process that was largely peaceful.
In a statement signed by the Executive Director, Ugochi Ehiahuruike, SIDEC congratulated Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo on his re-election, and highlighted the significant rise in voter turnout compared to the 2021 governorship election.
“For us, one of the most encouraging outcomes of this election is the dramatic improvement in voter turnout, which doubled from the 2021 cycle. This is particularly heartening given our sustained investments in voter mobilisation, countering mis/disinformation, civic enlightenment and political inclusion under Project IMPACT,” the statement read.
According to SIDEC, Project IMPACT has, in the past three months, driven increased voter engagement, especially among women, youths, PWDs and first-time voters.
“This increased turnout is a strong signal of growing public confidence in the electoral process and expanding civic consciousness in Anambra State,” it added.
SIDEC urged Governor Soludo to be magnanimous in victory and appealed to other contestants to demonstrate statesmanship by accepting the results in the interest of peace and stability in the state.
“Democracy is strongest when politicians place collective aspirations above personal ambitions,” SIDEC noted.
The organization further charged Governor Soludo to view his second tenure as a chance to consolidate on his first term achievements and raise the bar of performance.
“This is not a time to coast. This is a time to push harder. Ndi Anambra expect more inclusive development, sustained economic reforms, strengthened infrastructure delivery and above all, renewed and unwavering attention to security,” the statement stressed.
SIDEC also acknowledged the funding support from the UK-FCDO in partnership with the Nigeria Civil Society Election Situation Room, attributing part of the peaceful and improved turnout outcome to this strategic investment in civic education and electoral accountability.
