The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a strong warning to political parties, candidates, and voters ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra State, cautioning against any form of electoral malpractice, violence, or actions that could disrupt public order.
In a statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday, the commission outlined several prohibited activities at polling units and stressed that offenders would face legal consequences.
INEC reminded all candidates that campaigning or any form of voter persuasion is strictly forbidden on election day.
“No candidate shall canvass for votes, solicit for the vote of any voter, persuade any voter not to vote for a particular candidate, or shout slogans concerning the election,” the statement read.
The commission also warned against intimidation and acts of violence, stating that contestants and their supporters must not carry offensive weapons or wear outfits designed to threaten voters.
“Contestants and their supporters must not be in possession of any offensive weapon or wear any dress or facial decoration calculated to intimidate voters,” INEC said.
Additionally, the electoral body prohibited the display of party symbols, campaign materials, or any partisan identification at polling centres.
“No one is allowed to exhibit, wear, or display any party logo, photograph, or card, or use vehicles branded with party colours or symbols,” the commission added.
INEC further advised voters to maintain peace and leave polling areas once they have cast their ballots.
“No contestant, supporter, or voter should loiter without excuse after voting or after being refused to vote; snatch or destroy any election materials, or blare sirens,” the commission cautioned.
Meanwhile, INEC confirmed that the distribution of both sensitive and non-sensitive materials to all 21 local government areas of Anambra began on Thursday.
The exercise, conducted from the Central Bank of Nigeria’s office in Awka, was carried out under tight security supervision.
Saturday’s governorship election will take place across 5,718 polling units, with 16 political parties on the ballot, including two female candidates.
Over 2.7 million registered voters are expected to participate in the exercise.
