Heavy security presence has taken over the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Anambra State ahead of Saturday’s governorship election scheduled for November 8, 2025.
On Friday morning, hundreds of security personnel, including police officers and soldiers, were deployed around the commission’s office located near Ekwueme Square, Awka.
Several armoured personnel carriers and patrol trucks were stationed at key entry points, effectively sealing off access to the area.
The deployment caused a temporary halt to vehicular movement around Ekwueme Square, forcing motorists and pedestrians to park and walk across restricted routes to reach their destinations.
According to INEC officials, the security clampdown was part of precautionary measures to safeguard the movement of sensitive and non-sensitive election materials and to ensure the safety of electoral staff.
An INEC official who spoke on condition of anonymity explained that the operation was a coordinated effort between the police, army, and other security agencies.
“Soldiers and policemen were drafted to the premises and surrounding areas to prevent any breakdown of law and order. Movement of materials and electoral personnel is still ongoing,” the source said.
The official added that the cordon was also meant to minimize interference from the public and guarantee strict adherence to security protocols outlined in the Electoral Act.
“The INEC office was sealed off to avoid unnecessary distractions and to ensure that only accredited persons have access,” the source added.
INEC has reiterated its readiness for Saturday’s governorship poll, which will hold in 5,718 polling units across the state.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Awka, the Commission’s Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, announced that about 24,000 ad hoc staff and 540 accredited journalists would be deployed for the election.
Amupitan reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election, saying all necessary logistics and security arrangements have been finalized.
A total of 16 candidates representing 16 political parties are contesting in the election, including the incumbent governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, who is seeking re-election on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
The heightened security around INEC’s office comes amid widespread preparations across Anambra, with residents making last-minute purchases and movements before the restriction of movement expected on election day.
