Governorship PollThe Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD–West Africa) has expressed concern over low electoral competitiveness, rising disinformation, and fragile institutional confidence ahead of the November 8 Anambra State governorship election.Speaking at the opening of its Election Analysis Centre (EAC) in Awka on Friday, the democracy think tank noted that despite over 2.8 million registered voters and a 98.8 percent Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection rate recorded by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), fears of voter apathy persist.CDD said the election the first off-cycle poll to be conducted under INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan represents a crucial test for Nigeria’s democracy, particularly in terms of credibility, inclusiveness, and institutional resilience.The organisation also unveiled two pre-election reports titled “Anambra 2025: A Barometer of Party Fortunes, Federal Might and Personalities” and “Evaluating Disinformation Risks Ahead of the 2025 Governorship Election in Anambra State.”While acknowledging improvements in INEC’s preparations, CDD observed that public confidence remains weak following logistical lapses during the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise. It also criticised the slow judicial processes surrounding candidate eligibility, saying such delays undermine trust in the electoral process.The group further warned that internal crises within major political parties have reduced voter mobilisation and overall electoral competitiveness in the state.On security, CDD identified risks in areas such as Ihiala, Nnewi South, Orumba South, and border communities including Lilu, Azia, and Amorka. It cited weak oversight of vigilante groups and recurring violence as factors that could depress turnout. The group urged security agencies to act professionally and impartially during the election.CDD noted that the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the incumbent governor currently enjoy visibility and structural advantages. It condemned the N50 million billboard permit fee imposed by the Anambra State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ANSAA), describing it as a barrier to smaller parties despite the N1 billion expenditure ceiling set by the Electoral Act 2022.The organisation’s assessment of the state’s information landscape revealed heightened risks of misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech. Seven major patterns of manipulation were identified, including false claims of security bias, religious exploitation, weaponisation of insecurity, and gender-based attacks on female candidates.CDD also expressed concern over the low representation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). Only two women—both from smaller political parties—are contesting, while polling accessibility for PWDs remains limited.The organisation urged INEC to ensure neutrality and efficient deployment of voting materials and BVAS technology, while calling on security agencies to provide non-partisan protection for voters. It also appealed to political parties to shun vote-buying, maintain peaceful conduct, and for the media and civil society to promote factual information and inclusivity.The Centre announced that its Election Analysis Centre (EAC) will operate throughout the election period to monitor narratives, verify information, and counter disinformation in real time.“The 2025 Anambra governorship election is more than a sub-national poll. It is a test of Nigeria’s democratic integrity,” CDD stated, urging all stakeholders to prioritise peace, credibility, and national interest.
